Shillong, Sept 16: Animal Husbandry & Veterinary minister Sanbor Shullai admitted the impact of the Assam’s Cattle Prevention Bill 2021 in Meghalaya.
In reply to a question in the Assembly on Thursday, Shullai said the state government had written a letter to the Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in this regard.
“We are waiting for response from the Assam government,” he said while adding that on failing to get any response, the state government will sit to plan on the future course of action.
Answering a question by KHNAM legislator Adelbert Nongrum, Shullai said that a notification has been issued and very soon transit passes will be given to local traders for transportation of cattle.
The minister admitted that as per the information received from the retail beef traders and consumers, the price of beef in the market has gone up.
He however said there has been no proposal before the department to prescribe a rate per kg for beef as on date.
In reply to the concerns expressed by Nongpoh legislator Mayralborn Syiem over harassment against the cattle traders despite having proper documents, Shullai said that steps have been taken by the department to address this issue with the Assam veterinary department.
“I also request all members of the House if they have more suggestions on this vital issue to come forward, we will sit and discuss together,” he added.
Mawsynram legislator HM Shangpliang wanted to know the steps taken by the state government to address the problems of cattle smuggling to neighbouring Bangladesh.
He alleged that a cow that costs Rs 20,000 in Meghalaya is costing Rs 1 lakh in Bangladesh during Eid season.
“We have instructed the need to strengthen and intensify checking by the BSF and police so that illegal smuggling will not occur in future,” he said.
