The northeastern Indian state of Assam has broadened its restrictions on beef, banning its public use in restaurants and events.
This decision, announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday, builds upon an earlier law that limited beef sales near temples and in areas predominantly inhabited by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs. While public consumption is now prohibited, individuals can purchase beef from authorized outlets for private use.
The move has reignited debates over food regulations in India, where cows hold religious significance for Hindus, who make up 80% of the population. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), several states have tightened restrictions on cattle slaughter in recent years.
Nearly two-thirds of India’s states enforce partial or full bans on beef, though buffalo meat remains permissible in some regions.
The new ban comes amid political controversy. The opposition Congress party recently accused Sarma of pandering to Muslim voters by allegedly encouraging beef consumption during a by-election—a claim Sarma denied. Responding to criticism, Sarma stated he would consider a complete ban on beef if Congress supported it.