BAGALKOT:
Shepherds in Jamakhandi took to the streets with their sheep in a unique protest, marching from Desai Circle to the Taluk Administration building to demand legal protection and recognition of their traditional livelihood. The protestors submitted a memorandum to the Tahsildar, urging the government to implement laws to safeguard the interests of shepherds and prevent atrocities against them.
Arjun Dalwai, one of the protest leaders, alleged that shepherds face continuous violence including assault, threats, murder, rape, theft of livestock, and harassment by forest officials demanding bribes. He stressed the need for legislation to protect all vulnerable groups, including shepherds, women, and children.
Leader Huvappa Ushakara pointed out that shepherds are regularly harassed by forest staff while grazing sheep in hilly areas. “Sheep farming is a traditional livelihood passed down generations and a key source of income for rural families,” he said.
Yallappa Hegde highlighted recent violent incidents, including the murders of shepherds Sharanappa Chimmanakkatti (Badami) and Prabhu Metri (Bidar), and the rape and murder of Lakshmi Kalmani in Dharwad district, all linked to livestock theft and lack of safety.
Protesters demanded legal reforms, protection from forest department harassment, and recognition of their rights to graze sheep on traditional lands.
BOX:
Former MLA Anand Nyamagowda said the forest department is troubling shepherds unnecessarily. He promised to raise the issue with Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre and seek permanent relief, while also holding discussions with local forest officials to resolve ongoing problems.