Slaughter ban: Kerala to convene meeting of all CMs

The Kerala government on Wednesday decided to convene a meeting of all Chief Ministers in the country to discuss the Centre's ban on sale of cattle at animal markets for slaughter.

The decision comes days after Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to his counterparts appealing them to stand together and oppose the "anti-federal" move.

Also read: Cattle trade ban: Pinarayi urges fellow CMs to 'stand together' against Centre

"We want to call a meeting of all Chief Ministers to discuss the issue relating to the ban," Pinarayi told reporters here after a Cabinet meeting. He also indicated that the state government would legally challenge the notification which banned sale and purchase of cattle for slaughter.

Asked if any date had been finalised for the proposed CM's meeting, Pinarayi said said they wanted it to be held at the earliest. The government also decided to convene a special session of the state Assembly after discussions with Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala.

Also read: Beef ban: 'Kerala does not need food lessons from Delhi, Nagpur', says Pinarayi

The Kerala CM said the state government cannot accept the new regulations. "This has to be questioned legally as it is unconstitutional," he said. Asked if the state will move the Kerala High Court or the Supreme Court, the Chief Minister said the matter will be first discussed with legal experts.

Pinarayi had also shot off a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, opposing the ban and urging him to withdraw the new regulations, which is facing protests in some states, especially Kerala.

(with PTI inputs)

• cow slaughter ban
• Pinarayi Vijayan
• beef fest