The West Bengal government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has announced the enforcement of a 1950 Bengal law regarding cattle slaughter. This law requires that no cattle or buffalo can be slaughtered without an official certification confirming the animal's fitness for slaughter. Such certification must be issued jointly by local civic authorities and a government veterinary surgeon, applicable only to animals over 14 years old that are unfit for work or breeding or permanently incapacitated due to age, injury, or disease. Slaughtering in public places is strictly prohibited, and only licensed slaughterhouses may conduct these activities. Violators face penalties including up to six months of imprisonment and fines of up to ₹1,000 (approximately $12 USD). The government has also directed law enforcement to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal cattle slaughter and trade, addressing ongoing issues related to cattle smuggling and extortion rackets. The enforcement of the Animal Slaughter Control Act aims to regulate these activities and ensure that only licensed operations are permitted.