Shullai opposes Assam govt’s decision to ban public consumption of beef

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 6, 2024

BJP legislator from South Shillong Sanbor Shullai on Friday expressed strong opposition against the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led Assam government’s decision to ban public consumption of beef.

Addressing media persons, Shullai said that in any part of the world or under the Constitution of India, there is no law that restricts or bans consumption of any type of meat.

“When you travel all over the world, Bangkok, Malaysia, Indonesia, European and Asian countries, they even eat snakes, rats, insects, scorpions but there is no restriction. So why should they (Assam govt) restrict the eating of beef. I oppose (this decision),” he said.

Stating that in Meghalaya, it is people’s choice, Shullai said that two months ago he had eaten dog meat along with his wife.

“We eat dogs. I used to eat dogs when I was young. Now also two months back, my friend sent dog meat and I ate nicely with my wife. So what?.”

Terming the Assam government’s decision as not good, the BJP legislator said, “Why suddenly you ban? It is your choice if you want to eat snakes or if you want to eat beef.”

Shullai assured that such diktats will not be allowed in Meghalaya.  

“I will stand firmly, here it will not happen. As long as bah Sanbor is alive, I will not ban. This is an independent state. We can eat snakes, beef, scorpions, insects and whatever we like. Eat and enjoy. Christmas is coming now. Eat everything, Christmas and New Year is coming. Let us enjoy. Happy Christmas and New Year in advance,” he said.

Assam expands beef ban to hotels, restaurants, public spaces

Asked, the BJP MLA said, “I am here today as a BJP Sanbor. My BJP style of functioning is different. In Assam, the style of functioning is different. Here is BJP Sanbor.”

Meanwhile, Shullai informed that he would write to the Centre and government of Assam on the matter.

“I have already prepared to send my message to the Centre. A copy will also be sent to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma that we feel bad and sorry that he should not do all these things. We have the law to restrict criminals but in terms of edible things they should not restrict,” he asserted further.