New Delhi, March 24 (IANS): The CPI-M on Friday said the crackdown on slaughter houses in Uttar Pradesh will affect the livelihood of 25 lakh people and urged the Modi government to protect minorities' rights.

"In the name of closing down illegal slaughter houses, the UP government is targeting all slaughter houses on the specious plea of controlling illegal trade of cow meat. There have been instances of widespread attacks on meat shops in various parts of the state," said the CPI-M. 

The Communist Party of India-Marxist said the "atrocious attacks" had been mounted on the minority community since Adityanath Yogi became the Chief Minister. 

"It may be noted that Uttar Pradesh accounts for nearly 50 per cent of India's total meat exports and such a policy will affect the livelihood of 25 lakh people directly or indirectly," it said. 

"Moreover, all sections involved in the production and sale of meat all over the state are being targeted and at times subjected to physical assault. 

"The CPI-M calls upon the central government to ensure the protection of the constitutional guarantees for religious minorities and prevail upon the BJP state government to desist from following such a disastrous course," it added.