The Calcutta High Court has directed the West Bengal government to take a decision on granting an exemption in animal slaughter rules for the upcoming Eid ul-Adha festival. A division bench presided by Chief Justice Sujoy Paul issued the directive, noting that the festival is likely to take place on May 27 or 28. The court instructed the state to make a decision within 24 hours from the date of communication of this order.
The order came in response to a petition seeking relaxation of regulations that restrict animal slaughter, which is a key ritual during Eid ul-Adha. The petitioner argued that devotees require permission to perform the sacrifice without legal hurdles. The state government was asked to consider the matter urgently due to the approaching festival date.
The court emphasized the need for a swift resolution, given the religious significance of the occasion. The Bengal government is expected to weigh public health concerns, animal welfare laws, and religious sentiments while arriving at a decision. This development follows similar petitions in previous years, where courts have intervened to balance regulatory frameworks with religious practices.
As of now, the state authorities are reviewing the court's order and are likely to announce their stance shortly. The decision will impact thousands of Muslims across West Bengal who observe the festival by sacrificing animals such as goats, sheep, and cows. The High Court's intervention underscores the ongoing legal and administrative complexities surrounding religious exemptions in the state.
