Kolkata
The newly formed Bharatiya Janata Party government has initiated strict measures to curb alleged cow smuggling in the state, directing police and administrative authorities to increase surveillance and prevent illegal cattle trade activities.
According to government officials, the crackdown began immediately after the new administration assumed office. On the first working day of the government, instructions were issued to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and ensure that illegal cattle transportation and trading activities are stopped at all levels.
Authorities stated that district police units have been asked to maintain strict vigilance and prevent the operation of unauthorised cattle markets. Additional monitoring arrangements have also been introduced to ensure that no illegal markets are reopened in different parts of the state.
The state government reportedly conveyed a strong message to senior police officials, following which directions were passed on to district-level police authorities for immediate implementation.
The issue of alleged cow smuggling has remained politically sensitive in the state for several years. The matter had gained national attention after the name of Anubrata Mondal became linked to an alleged cattle smuggling case investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation.
Mondal was arrested by the CBI in 2022 in connection with the case. Later, his daughter’s name also surfaced during the investigation, and she was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate. Both were lodged in Tihar Jail before later securing bail.
Meanwhile, police and security forces recently seized three trucks carrying cows in Malda district amid allegations that the animals were being transported for smuggling purposes.
According to local reports, villagers noticed the vehicles and stopped them before informing the authorities. Police personnel and central security forces later arrived at the location to take control of the situation.
The incident took place near the bus stand on National Highway 12 in the Gajol Kadubari area.
Local resident Mintu Saha told reporters that some individuals were allegedly purchasing cows from various markets and transporting them in trucks despite the government’s position against illegal cattle trade.
He claimed that eight cows were found in one truck, five in another, and three in the third vehicle.
Before coming to power, the Bharatiya Janata Party had promised to take stronger measures against cow smuggling and proposed the creation of a dedicated surveillance squad to monitor such activities across the state.
Officials indicated that further enforcement actions and monitoring operations are likely to continue as part of the government’s broader campaign against illegal cattle transportation and smuggling networks.