Bangalore : In what could turn out to be a setback to the BJP government, Karnataka Governor H R Bharadwaj has reserved for consideration of President Pritibha Patil, the controversial Karnataka Prevention of slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Bill, 2010, which was passed in the two Houses of state Legislature early this month without any debate.

The Bill, which stipulates heavy penalties, including imprisonment, was opposed by the Opposition and organisations who accused the BJP government of dividing the people on caste lines and showing disrespect to their food habits.

The state government got the Bill passed by voice vote amid din in the two Houses when the Opposition stalled the proceedings during the truncated monsoon session early this month.

A communication from the Governor's secretariat clarified that the Governor's had not sent back to the Bill to the state government as stated by Home Minister V S Achar earlier, but referred it to the President.

''After due consideration of the provisions of the Bill with reference to Constitutional provisions relating to Fundamental Rights, the ruling of the apex court, averse effect on the lives of a large sections of people in the state and lack of legislative competence, the consent for the Bill has been reserved for consideration of the President,'' the spokesperson said.

Under the Bill, those who commit cattle slaughter are liable for imprisonment of one year to seven years, with or without a fine ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000.