The controversial amendments to the Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act will be tabled in the Legislative Council on Monday.
According to the Council agenda for February 8, the Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020, will be taken up following a discussion on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address.
The Council proceedings, which were extended by two days to facilitate the election to the post of Chairman, are expected to be a heated affair during the debate on the Bill, opposed by both Congress and JD(S).
However, the Bill will likely be passed by the House, as the JD(S) has decided to abstain when the Bill comes up for voting at the end of the discussion.
Apart from a blanket ban on slaughter of all cattle, save buffaloes above 13 years of age, it offers protection for “persons acting in good faith” while detecting cases of cow slaughter.
The legislation is being widely seen as an attempt to push the BJP’s Hindutva agenda in the state. It is similar to the one enacted in Uttar Pradesh and other states ruled by the saffron party.
Opposition parties had blocked its passage in the winter session held in December, demanding that the BJP bring in common law for the country.
Though the Bill was cleared by the Assembly, it was not passed in the Council - which witnessed dramatic scenes as the ruling BJP pushed for its passage. Since the attempt was unsuccessful, the government had promulgated an ordinance for the purpose in January.
(Published 07 February 2021, 17:29 IST)
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