Statement on private beef consumption sparks political controversy hours before voting
April 8, 2026: As political tensions rise ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma clarified his stance on beef consumption, stating that there is no issue with eating beef but it should be restricted to private spaces. His remarks mark a shift from earlier statements where he had warned of legal action against those consuming cow meat. He emphasised that while there is no ban, beef should not be consumed in public places or within a 5-km radius of temples.
The statement has triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party and the Samajwadi Party. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav criticised the BJP, while AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal accused the party of using cow protection as an electoral tool. The controversy has further intensified political rhetoric in the state just hours before voting.
Under the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, cow slaughter is not banned, but public consumption of beef is prohibited, with violations attracting penalties. The issue has remained a key political flashpoint, with Sarma’s past remarks and recent allegations against opposition figures adding fuel to the debate. Assam is set to vote on April 9, with results scheduled for May 4.