Overview

• The state home ministry has drafted a dedicated anti–cow-smuggling bill for the upcoming legislative session under the 1995 animal preservation framework.
• Minister Pankaj Bhoyar announced that individuals convicted a third time for cow slaughter, transport or sale will face charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act.
• A Special Investigation Team has been constituted to probe the March seizure of about 57 tonnes of beef in two Kusgaon, Pune containers.
• Maharashtra has requested the central government to revoke the APEDA licence of Asian Foods Micro Pvt. Ltd., the Hyderabad-based firm linked to the seized consignment.
• Authorities will review and withdraw qualifying cases against gau rakshaks who volunteer in exposing beef smuggling.