Belagavi
In Belagavi, activists of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal held a protest on Wednesday at Channamma Circle opposing the proposed amendment to the Karnataka Cow Slaughter Prohibition and Conservation Act. The protestors alleged that although the state cabinet had decided in January 2020 to amend Section 6(4) of the act, the government is now delaying its implementation.
They highlighted that despite strict provisions, incidents of overloading vehicles with more cattle than the prescribed limit and transporting them in cruel conditions continue in certain areas. While the 2021 law helped regulate some illegal activities, complete enforcement has not been achieved. According to protestors, in some regions, cattle are still being transported illegally due to financial incentives, demonstrating a gap in law enforcement.
The demonstration was attended by prominent VHP and Bajrang Dal leaders and activists, including Pramod Okkundmath, Swaroop Kalakundri, Anand Karalinganavar, and Nagesh Kambale, along with other office bearers and members.
The protestors demanded the full and effective implementation of the law to prevent cruelty to cattle and called for stricter monitoring of transportation practices. They urged the government to ensure that the amended provisions are enforced promptly, emphasizing that legal loopholes should not be exploited for profit.
The protest drew attention to ongoing violations and stressed the need for coordinated efforts by authorities to protect cattle and uphold the law across Karnataka.
This demonstration reflects broader concerns among social and religious groups about animal welfare and the enforcement of state regulations related to cow protection.