How to end cow violence? Modi minister suggests building cow sanctuaries on forest land

Union Minister of State (Home) Hansraj G Ahir has proposed that 1,000 hectares of forest land be allotted to set up cow sanctuaries in every district of the 16 states where cow slaughter is banned. This, according to the minister, will prevent "violence due to cattle smuggling".

According to a report published in The Indian Express, Ahir is expected to meet Union Environment and Forests Minister Harsh Vardhan early in September to “take the proposal forward”.

"By setting up cow sanctuaries at district levels, the incidents of cow slaughter can be reduced. Violence due to cattle-smuggling in states where slaughter is banned has led to a law-and-order situation. The Home Ministry faces questions in Parliament on these incidents. I have taken up this matter in the past, too," Ahir said.

Cost involved?

According to Ahir, there will be 'zero' cost. Fodder can be collected from the forest using MGNREGA. This will in return provide employment to locals.

Shift gaushalas to sanctuaries

Hansraj Ahir has suggested to Modi government to shift cow shelters across the country to the proposed sanctuaries. This will stop the sale of non-milching and old cows to slaughterhouses, he said.
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