Panaji, Jun 9 (IANS) : A newly-formed civil society group backed by the influential Roman Catholic Church in Goa on Thursday questioned the BJP-led coalition government's silence over the controversy kicked up by the new central government rules on cattle trade and slaughter, which they said have virtually resulted in a beef ban.

The organization 'Goa for Beef - Beef for Goa' led by Fr. Savio Fernandes of the Church-backed Council for Social Justice and Peace and Abdul Matin, a social worker, has demanded immediate revocation of the central government's rules.

It also said that accountability would be sought from Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar over the matter.

"Why has the government failed to raise any issues or make any statement with respect to the ban on sale of cattle for slaughter, which would affect the livelihoods of thousands of people in Goa, besides impinging on the food habits of a significant population of people in Goa," the two co-conveners said in a statement issued here.

"It is alarming that beef which is a source of protein for many people in Goa will soon be off the plate, rendering an important source of nutrition," the statement issued by Fernandes and Matin said.

"The government and its representatives have somersaulted from statements that it will respect the food choices of the people when it comes to eating meat to statements such as following the law and selectively interpreting the law with a view to excluding minorities and eventually the marginalized sections such as poor farmers and Dalit populations, all of whom are dependent on animals," the statement adds, warning that they would approach the judiciary to strike down the amended provisions in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Regulation of Livestock Markets) Rules, 2017.

Catholics account for more than 26 per cent of the coastal state's population.