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The recent seizure of 54,000 kg of suspected buffalo meat from two containers intercepted near Pune on March 24, was highlighted via a calling attention motion
Samples were sent for scientific examination to the Forensic Science Laboratory in Pune, where tests confirmed that the cargo contained boneless buffalo meat prepared for export. (Image for representation: AFP)
Replying to a calling attention motion raised in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, the state government assured the House that they are implementing strict measures to curb the illegal smuggling, transport, and export of beef and cattle meat.
Minister of State for Home (Rural) Pankaj Bhoyar was responding to a notice tabled under Rule 107 by members Shrikant Bharatiya and others. They highlighted the recent seizure of 54,000 kg of suspected buffalo meat from two containers intercepted near Pune on March 24. The containers, originating from Hyderabad’s Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust, were bound for export through Mumbai’s port facilities without valid documents.
Bhoyar informed the House that upon receiving intelligence, the Lonikand Rural Police Station executed the seizure and charged the accused under multiple sections of the Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act, 1976 (amended 1995) and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The seized samples were sent for scientific examination to the Forensic Science Laboratory, Pune, where tests confirmed that the cargo contained boneless buffalo meat prepared for export.
The minister stated that the involved company and handlers attempted to evade mandatory quarantine and export clearances. He added that the company had falsified documents to pass off the shipment as “Indian halal frozen boneless buffalo offals” for export, violating multiple state and central laws. Highlighting the seriousness of the issue, Minister Bhoyar revealed that from January to June 2025 alone, 1,248 cases related to illegal cattle slaughter and unauthorized transport have been registered across Maharashtra, resulting in the seizure of over 1,708 tonnes of illegal meat.
He stressed that the government has directed the animal husbandry department, police, and regional transport authorities to intensify inspections, cancel transport permits of repeat offenders, and strictly enforce provisions under the Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act and the Transport of Animals Rules.
The minister reassured the legislative council that the administration will not tolerate illegal activities that violate livestock protection laws and that robust legal and administrative measures will continue to prevent unauthorized cattle transport, slaughter, and smuggling for export.
Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa…Read More
Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa… Read More
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