Kolkata’s Beef Plates Disappear Slowly
Though no formal statewide prohibition has been announced, the impact is visible in menu changes and uncertainty among businesses
HYDERABAD: A section of the Kolkata restaurant industry is fearing disruption due to the enforcement of cattle slaughter regulations, which are affecting beef supply, prompting several establishments to drop or suspend beef dishes.
Restaurants across Kolkata reported supply shortages following the strict implementation of the Animal Husbandry Act, 1950. Though no formal statewide prohibition has been announced, the impact is visible in menu changes and uncertainty among businesses.
At Nizam’s, known for its kati rolls, beef items have been temporarily withdrawn. Chairman Sameer Kazi said, “We have temporarily discontinued beef items as supply has been hit.” An employee added, “We have had to decline orders due to a cow and an unclaimed incident and continuous business slowdown in the changing situation in the state.”
Similar constraints have been reported at Zam Zam, where beef biryani is no longer available. At The Bungalow Shop, operators announced the removal of beef items, citing supply issues. Co-owner Usha Das said, “We did not get any official notice from the government. But as of now, there is no supply.”
On Park Street, Mocambo is also affected. Owner Nitin Kothari said, “We are waiting for supply to resume, but if it does not, we will have to remove it from the menu.”
At Olypub, beef dishes will continue for now, though operators expressed uncertainty about continuity. The developments follow reported restrictions by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government on cattle slaughter, which require prior approval from authorities. Concerns have extended beyond restaurants to cattle markets and traders.
Activity has declined at Gajol Gorur Hat, while traders in Murshidabad and Malda reported reduced supply due to stricter restrictions on transport and slaughter. Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has written to the Chief Minister expressing concern over a May 13 notice on adherence to slaughter guidelines, stating that it has caused “consternation” in affected areas.
Opposition parties including the Left, BJP and Trinamool Congress allege the development, aligning the imposition of policies similar to those in Uttar Pradesh. The BJP has not issued a detailed response. The situation has created uncertainty across the restaurant sector and associated supply chains, with stakeholders awaiting clarity on enforcement.