The correct answer is: a) Shakti worship traditions.
Shakti is the Hindu goddess of power and energy. She is often depicted as a fierce warrior goddess, and her worship is often associated with animal sacrifice. In ancient Assam, Shakti worship was a major religious practice, and animal sacrifice was a common part of this practice.
Tribal customs in Assam also sometimes involve animal sacrifice. However, these sacrifices are usually not as elaborate or as frequent as those associated with Shakti worship.
Buddhist rituals do not typically involve animal sacrifice. In fact, Buddhism teaches that all living beings are sacred, and that harming any living being is wrong.
Vedic practices do not typically involve animal sacrifice either. However, there are some Vedic rituals that do involve the sacrifice of animals. These sacrifices are usually performed by priests, and they are seen as a way to appease the gods.
In conclusion, the practice of animal sacrifice in ancient Assam can be linked to Shakti worship traditions. These sacrifices were often performed as a way to show devotion to the goddess Shakti, and they were seen as a way to gain her favor.