Crackdown on cow slaughter: 133 arrested in Assam for illegally slaughtering cows and selling beef
Assam, India 
1 July, 2025
Case Summary
In Assam, a major crackdown was initiated against individuals accused of violating the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, by engaging in illegal cattle slaughter and unauthorised sale of beef. According to reports, during the statewide operation, the Assam Police arrested at least 133 individuals and seized over one tonne of suspected beef from various establishments. Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Akhilesh Kumar Singh stated that the operation was launched suo motu by the Assam Police in response to multiple reports of violations related to cattle slaughter and beef sale, especially in areas where restrictions are legally enforced. Singh said, “The primary aim of this statewide drive was to stop violations of the Assam Cattle Preservation Act. We conducted raids in restaurants, hotels, and other locations. Several police stations registered multiple cases.” Under the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, the slaughter and sale of beef are prohibited in areas predominantly inhabited by Hindus, Jains, or Sikhs, and within a five-kilometre radius of any temple or satra (Vaishnavite monastery), though beef consumption is not banned across the state. As part of the operation, the police raided 112 hotels and restaurants, arrested 133 individuals, and sent the seized meat for forensic testing. Authorities stated that the crackdown will continue to identify and act against those involved in illegal cattle slaughter and unauthorised beef sale. Additionally, police urged all establishments to comply strictly with the law and warned of stringent action against repeat violators.
Why it is Hate Crime ?
The cow is regarded as sacred in the Hindu religion. There have been numerous documented cases throughout history where non-Hindu individuals have slaughtered cows as an act intended to insult the Hindu faith. Such acts have also been used to forcibly convert Hindus, sometimes by compelling them to consume beef, and to desecrate temples. In many cases of cow slaughter, there is a high suspicion that religious animosity towards Hindus is a motivating factor. However, in the absence of concrete evidence indicating religious animosity, this incident is currently categorised as Undecided. If further details emerge indicating that the crime was carried out due to religious animosity, then it will be recategorised to the Hate Crime Database.
Case Status
Arrested
Perpetrators Details
Perpetrators
Unknown
Perpetrators Range
From 10 to 100
Perpetrators Gender
unknown
Sources 
