The government on Friday clamped a ban on the sale and purchase of cattle from animal markets for slaughter with a notification through the Environment Ministry. The government has taken the step ostensible with the welfare of the animals in mind. 
The ministry notified the stringent ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Regulation of Livestock Markets) Rules, 2017’ under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. 

As per the notification, the member secretary of an animal market committee will have to ensure that no person brings a young animal to the animal market.
“No person shall bring a cattle to an animal market unless upon arrival he has furnished a written declaration signed by the owner of the cattle – stating the name and address of the owner of the cattle, with a copy of the photo identification proof. 
“Giving details of the identification of the cattle and stating that the cattle has not been brought to market for sale for slaughter,” the notification reads. 
The government’s decision evoked sharp reaction from some political leaders.  Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed concern that the new law extends the ban beyond cows to also include buffaloes and other bovine species.”
He said that meat was essential to ensure food security across India. The ban will result in thousands being pushed into unemployment and its overall impact on the large leather hide industry.
Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor criticised the Centre’s move with a tweet: “As a vegetarian i object strongly to the ban on cow slaughter. Gandhiji had objected to imposing 1’s view on others. Freedom is being eroded.”