The slaughter of cows, calves and camels is completely prohibited in Andhra Pradesh, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu said on Wednesday, warning of stringent criminal action against illegal slaughter and transportation of banned animals during the Bakrid festival.

In a statement, the Minister said only goats, sheep, pigs, poultry, ducks, fish and buffaloes that are no longer used for reproduction are permitted for slaughter for meat consumption in the State. Any violation of laws relating to prohibited animals would invite strict action under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Andhra Pradesh Prohibition of Cow Slaughter and Animal Preservation laws, he said.

Mr. Atchannaidu stressed that all activities related to animal transportation, care and slaughter must strictly comply with government regulations. He cautioned that overloading animals in vehicles, transporting them in inhuman conditions and carrying out unauthorised slaughter were serious offences.

The Minister said that while laws governing animal transportation, protection and slaughter are framed at the national level, implementation and restrictions vary from State to State. He urged people to ensure that animals are handled in accordance with animal welfare norms and without cruelty.

He said veterinary staff across Andhra Pradesh had been instructed to remain alert during the Bakrid period and coordinate with the Revenue, Police, Municipal Administration and Panchayat Raj Departments to prevent illegal slaughter and transportation activities.

The Minister also advised the public to contact local police authorities for clarification on legal provisions governing animal slaughter and transportation. He appealed to citizens to respect animal protection laws and celebrate the festival in a lawful manner.