An Analysis on Beef Ban, Cow Slaughtering in India and it's Affect on the Freedom of Trade and Commerce: A Constitutional Battle

Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals laws, the Ministry of Environment of the Indian Central Government, headed by the Bhartiya Janata Party, placed a ban on the selling and purchase of cattle for slaughter at animal markets across India on May 26, 2017. Various slaughterhouses were forced to close as a result of the prohibition. Despite the fact that the slaughter of goats and chickens is legal, small shops selling these animals have been forced to close. Many communities that have historically relied on the meat trade for their livelihood are now facing unemployment. The majority of butchers are Muslims, and many believe they are being disproportionately targeted. They say that their companies are being shut down due to procedural issues. Here is where the question now as to whether such an Act is legal or whether it infringes on citizens? constitutional rights where freedom of trade and commerce being the most affected one on the made decision. This situation leads us to the necessity on analysing this topic with respect to the constitutionality of our country, discussing the issue of beef ban on the major part.