Gujarat registered 629 cases of alleged cow smuggling and illegal beef transportation over the past two years. This resulted in 1,810 arrests and the rescue of 1,800 cows, the State Government informed the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday (February 25, 2026).
Replying during Question Hour of the Budget Session, Minister of State for Law and Justice Kaushik Vekariya said 54,000 kg of beef was seized across the state during the period. Authorities also confiscated 433 vehicles allegedly used in such offences, of which 339 have been auctioned.
The Minister said 184 people were detained under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities (PASA) Act as a preventive measure, while 50 were externed. Additionally, 39 properties linked to the accused, collectively valued at around ₹6 crore, were demolished.
Mr. Vekariya was responding on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, who holds the Home portfolio. He said the state has adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards cow smuggling and illegal slaughter and appointed special public prosecutors to ensure effective implementation of the Gujarat Animal Preservation (Amendment) Act, 2017.
21 convictions
