The decision brings immediate relief to the Tamil Nadu state government, which had approached the top court challenging the blanket prohibition. The High Court’s order had explicitly directed the state to ensure that no cows or calves were slaughtered on the eve of Bakrid or on any other day.
The Legal Conflict with Existing State Law
A bench consisting of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta issued a notice to the respondents after hearing the Tamil Nadu government’s petition.In its appeal, the state government argued that the High Court's absolute ban directly contradicted established statutory frameworks—specifically Section 4 of the Tamil Nadu Animal Preservation Act, 1958.
Under this existing 1958 legislation, a total ban does not exist. Instead, the law regulates cattle slaughter under specific conditions. Slaughter is legally permitted if the animal is:
- Over 10 years of age.
- Certified by proper authorities as no longer fit for breeding or agricultural work.
Supreme Court Intervenes
Recognizing the conflict between the High Court's judicial directive and the state's legislative act, the Supreme Court bench stayed the operation of the High Court's order with immediate effect.The apex court has sought responses from the original petitioners involved in the High Court case. The absolute ban will remain paused until the Supreme Court conducts further proceedings and delivers a final ruling on the matter.
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