Overview
- Local authorities put up banners in predominantly Muslim neighbourhoods warning of ‘permanent seizure of all properties’ for cattle slaughter, and the banners were removed after public backlash on Tuesday.
- The Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020 prescribes imprisonment and fines for cattle slaughter but contains no provision for seizure of private property, making the banners’ claim legally unfounded.
- Hassan district Muslim organisations said the boycott of cattle purchases was a protective step after what they described as targeted intimidation and after officials and activists intercepted 11 livestock vehicles last week.
- Superintendent of Police Shubhanwita told reporters no government agency had put up the banners and asked local police to trace where they were printed, while the municipal commissioner confirmed removal but would not say who authorised them.
- Empty markets on the eve of Bakrid have left many farmers without expected income, prompting protests and threats to bring cattle to the deputy commissioner’s office and renewed calls to amend or repeal the 2020 law.