Supreme Court pauses Madras HC order banning cow, calf slaughter in Tamil Nadu

The Supreme Court granted interim relief to the Tamil Nadu government, issued notice on its plea challenging the High Court's directions, and stayed the operation of the order until further proceedings.

The Supreme Court on Monday stayed a Madras High Court order that had directed the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that no cow or calf is slaughtered in the state on the eve of Bakrid or on any other day.

A bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta issued notice to the respondents after the Tamil Nadu government challenged the High Court's order.

The state government argued that the direction imposing a complete ban on cow slaughter was contrary to the Tamil Nadu Animal Preservation Act, 1958.

Under the 1958 law, the slaughter of cattle is permitted in certain circumstances, including if the animal is over 10 years old or is no longer fit for breeding or agricultural work, subject to the issuance of the required certificate.

While hearing the matter, the Supreme Court observed that the High Court's order required "correction" and stayed its operation with immediate effect.

The top court has issued notice on the Tamil Nadu government's plea challenging the order, and the High Court's directions will remain stayed until further orders.

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