The ban by the Centre on sale of cattle at animal markets for slaughter is a retrograde step taken with little application of mind. (“New restrictions on cattle slaughter,” May 27). Livestock rearing is one of the major allied activities of the agrarian populace in the country. With large parts of the country reeling under an unprecedented drought, the small and marginal farmers are forced to depend on cattle sales for livelihood. In any case, the animals are sold only after they stop giving milk or became infirm. The Centre’s ban would impact the country’s big meat export industry. The business activities associated with leather would also face grave uncertainties. The allegation by some sections that this has been taken to further marginalise the minorities cannot be brushed aside. It is disgusting that instead of taking action against vigilante groups indulging in all sorts of violence in the name of cattle protection, the government is pandering to the same forces.
J. Anantha Padmanabhan,
Srirangam, Tamil Nadu
