Senior Congress Leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has urged West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to intervene over what he described as growing “confusion and unrest” following the state government’s recent guidelines on animal slaughter. The appeal comes amid concerns raised in Murshidabad district, where sections of the minority community have expressed unease over the implementation of the revised rules.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Chowdhury said a public notice issued on May 13 regarding adherence to “Animal Slaughter Guidelines” had triggered uncertainty among residents. The notice reiterated that the slaughter of bulls, bullocks, cows, calves, and buffaloes cannot take place without an officially issued fitness certificate jointly approved by civic authorities and a government veterinary surgeon.

According to the guidelines, certification can only be granted if authorities determine in writing that an animal is either over 14 years old for work or breeding purposes, or permanently incapacitated due to age, deformity, injury, or incurable disease. The state government has also reportedly tightened restrictions on public slaughter and intensified enforcement under the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950.

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Chowdhury suggested that the Murshidabad district administration identify and demarcate designated locations where communities could continue customary practices linked to their religious traditions. He argued that such an arrangement could help ease tensions while ensuring compliance with existing legal provisions. In his letter, the Congress leader stressed that West Bengal’s diverse social and religious landscape required policies that allowed communities to practise their customs without fear or misunderstanding.

The controversy comes amid broader political debate over cattle slaughter regulations in the state following recent administrative changes and renewed enforcement measures. Opposition leaders and community representatives have expressed concern that stricter implementation could lead to social friction in districts with significant minority populations, while supporters of the move argue it is aimed at curbing illegal slaughter and ensuring adherence to long-standing laws.

The West Bengal government has not yet publicly responded to Chowdhury’s appeal. However, the issue is expected to remain politically sensitive as authorities seek to balance legal enforcement, public sentiment, and communal harmony in one of India’s most politically active states.

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