Ongoing issue of cattle smuggling in Upper Assam, particularly in Sivasagar district, has sparked widespread public outrage due to allegations of police inaction and possible complicity. Debabrata Saikia, Leader of Opposition in Assam Legislative Assembly, has formally raised matter by lodging a complaint with Chairperson of Assam State Police Accountability Commission, calling for an investigation into failure of law enforcement.
Public Protests Against Police Inaction
Recent protests by social organizations and residents in areas such as Demow, Rajma, and Rupapur have brought attention to unchecked cattle smuggling activities in region. These protests highlight a deep-seated frustration with police, who have been accused of ignoring repeated complaints and failing to act against illegal cattle syndicates.
A local source remarked, “police are behaving in a lackadaisical manner and not taking action on complaints filed, which has emboldened culprits to carry out their activities openly.”
Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021
Assam government enacted Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021, to curb illegal cattle transportation and smuggling. Key provisions of Act include:
| Section | Provision |
| Section 7 | Prohibits cattle transport without valid permits, including transportation between states or to areas where slaughter is banned. |
| Section 11 | Empowers police officers and veterinary officials to inspect and seize cattle involved in illegal activities. |
Despite robust framework of this Act, police have faced criticism for failing to enforce these provisions effectively.
Allegations of Corruption and Complicity
There are allegations that certain police officers may have links with cattle smugglers. This perceived complicity has tarnished reputation of law enforcement in area. Vehicles allegedly used for transporting cattle have been spotted frequently, yet little action has been taken, further fueling public distrust.
Debabrata Saikia’s Formal Complaint
In a formal complaint dated December 5, 2024, Debabrata Saikia urged Assam State Police Accountability Commission to investigate police’s inaction. Saikia emphasized need to enforce Assam Cattle Preservation Act and highlighted lack of action on FIRs related to cattle smuggling in Sivasagar.
Saikia’s submission included:
- Newspaper clippings.
- Photographs of vehicles allegedly used in illegal cattle transport.
- Evidence of public protests against police inaction.
Challenges Due to Legal Amendments
Assam Police (Amendment) Act, 2021 has restricted jurisdiction of Assam State Police Accountability Commission to cases of “serious misconduct,” such as custodial deaths, grievous hurt, and molestation. This limitation has made it challenging for Commission to address complaints like those raised by Saikia, which involve non-registration of FIRs or failure to act on complaints.
A spokesperson from Commission stated, “We are constrained to hold that this Commission cannot entertain matter within purview of Assam Police Act, 2021, and hence, matter is closed.”
Current Status and Public Response
While Saikia’s complaint has been closed by Commission, it has encouraged him to take up matter with appropriate forums. broader issue of cattle smuggling remains unresolved, with public distrust towards local authorities and law enforcement agencies growing.
situation in Sivasagar continues to be tense as residents demand accountability and stricter enforcement of law. Assam government faces criticism for its inability to ensure effective law enforcement, undermining its efforts to address illegal cattle trade in region.
Major Details in Table Format
| Aspect | Details |
| Leader Raising Issue | Debabrata Saikia, Leader of Opposition in Assam Legislative Assembly |
| Key Complaint | Police inaction and possible complicity in cattle smuggling in Sivasagar |
| Public Reaction | Protests in Demow, Rajma, and Rupapur |
| Relevant Law | Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021 |
| Key Provisions of Act | – Section 7: Prohibits cattle transport without permits |
| – Section 11: Empowers police and veterinary officials for inspections | |
| Amendments Hindering Action | Assam Police (Amendment) Act, 2021, limits jurisdiction of Police Accountability Commission |
| Evidence Submitted by Saikia | – Newspaper clippings |
| – Photographs of vehicles allegedly used for smuggling | |
| Commission’s Response | Stated inability to act due to amended Act, advised Saikia to approach other forums |
| Current Status | Public distrust towards local authorities continues |
Conclusion
issue of cattle smuggling in Upper Assam is a multi-faceted challenge involving legal, administrative, and ethical considerations. While Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021 provides a legal framework to address problem, its enforcement has been inadequate. Allegations of police complicity and inaction have further exacerbated issue, undermining public confidence in law enforcement.
Debabrata Saikia’s efforts to raise issue highlight need for accountability and stricter enforcement of existing laws. Assam government must take immediate steps to restore public trust and address systemic issues within law enforcement. Without swift and decisive action, credibility of state’s anti-smuggling initiatives may suffer, leaving vulnerable communities to bear brunt of unchecked illegal activities.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and reports believed to be reliable. While every effort has been made to present accurate and up-to-date details, readers are encouraged to verify facts independently. author and publication are not responsible for any discrepancies or errors.
