Bengaluru; The Siddaramaiah-led Congress government is facing backlash for its decision to potentially drop the establishment of new Goshalas (cow shelters) in districts where previous announcements by the BJP government remained unfulfilled. This controversial move has drawn severe criticism from various BJP leaders and Hindu organisations, who argue it undermines the welfare of cows, often referred to as the “mother of the world” and considered national wealth.
In the cabinet meeting that was held on December 3, 2025. the government decided to reallocate Rs 10.5 crore fund initially reserved for the construction of new cow shelters. Instead, it plans to divert these funds to strengthen existing shelters in 14 districts that are currently operational. Critics argue that this decision reflects a lack of commitment to animal welfare and a disregard for promises made to protect stray cattle, which can pose serious risks on the roads and face threats from thieves.
During the previous BJP government, significant steps were taken to establish cow shelters in various districts, including the successful registration of seven shelters in Chikkamagaluru alone. The BJP government also included allocations for the maintenance of cows, with an established funding of Rs 17 per cow per day. However, since the Congress government took power, these funds have reportedly ceased, leaving shelter operators struggling to meet their expenses.
“Cows must be cared for and protected. The state government has a moral obligation to ensure their welfare,” stated a BJP spokesperson. “By abandoning plans for new cow shelters, the Congress government is failing in its responsibility to safeguard these animals. We urge them to reconsider their decision and prioritize the welfare of our cows.”
Furthermore, operators of cow shelters are highlighting the dire need for funds, estimating a shortfall of Rs 88 lakh to meet current maintenance expenses, which has left many facing financial distress. “We have only received a fraction of what is necessary,” an official noted, emphasizing the critical nature of the situation.
As the Congress government prepares to discuss this matter, leaders from the BJP and animal welfare groups are rallying for a reversal of this decision, stressing the importance of sustaining support for cow shelters to ensure the welfare of cattle across the state.
BJP Condemns Congress Government’s Decision to Close Cow Shelters
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has vocally opposed the Congress-led state government’s decision to close 21 cow shelters established during its tenure, citing a shortage of cattle. Instead of maintaining these facilities, the government plans to redirect funds to strengthen 14 other existing cow shelters. Former Animal Husbandry Minister and Aurad MLA Prabhu Chauhan has accused the Congress government of indirectly promoting cow slaughter through this decision.
Speaking to Organiser Chauhan expressed grave concern over the government’s actions, questioning, “Why have the cow shelters that were bustling during the BJP regime become empty under Congress? By shutting down these shelters, the Congress government is essentially encouraging cow slaughter.”
Chauhan criticised the Congress for their recent cabinet declaration that cows were not being brought to the 14 operational shelters while simultaneously proposing to close others. He lamented the apparent contradiction in the government’s strategy, which he believes undermines animal welfare.
Recalling the BJP’s initiatives during its time in power, including the anti cow slaughter law, the establishment of the Animal Welfare Board, and the Punyakoti Dattu scheme aimed at protecting cows and preventing animal cruelty, Chauhan emphasized a stark contrast with the current government.
“There is a noticeable increase in slaughterhouses across the state. The Congress government, which should be focusing on building shelter facilities for cows, has failed to do so and instead allowed illegal slaughterhouses to proliferate,” he stated.
The former minister also highlighted the troubling rise in illegal cow trafficking, noting that cows meant for shelters are now being sent to slaughterhouses. He pointed out that the Congress government has dismantled vital check posts established to combat illegal cow smuggling, leading to a surge in this illicit activity.
Chauhan reiterated that the government’s negligence towards animal welfare is alarming, asserting, “While preventing cruelty to animals should be a top priority, the government’s indifference resembles erecting a fence only to let the livestock graze freely. This negligence will not go unpunished, as the cries of these silent animals may eventually bear consequences upon this government.”
As the BJP mounts its criticism, the debate over animal welfare and the role of government policies in protecting cows continues to escalate, drawing attention to the broader implications for both animal rights advocates and the involved political parties.
BJP alleged cattle waste dumping in river to impure
Former Deputy Chief Minister KS Eshwarappa has launched a strong condemnation of what he describes as a deliberate attempt to desecrate the holy waters cherished by Hindus. Speaking to the mediapersons in Dharmasthala, he expressed outrage over the dumping of cow waste into the Mrityunjaya river, which subsequently flows into the Netravati river, a site of significant religious importance.
Eshwarappa stated, “This act is not just an environmental issue; it directly threatens the sanctity of holy bath rituals performed by millions of devotees. How can we allow such disrespect to our religious beliefs and practices?” He questioned the negligence of authorities, asking, “Despite the ban on cow slaughter, how is it possible for such a large quantity of cow waste to end up in our sacred waters? Why has there been no action taken against those tarnishing the dignity of Hindu society?”
Adding to the dialogue, Eshwarappa pointed out the cabinet’s recent decision to halt the establishment of new cow schools, which he believes is directly linked to the availability of cows. “Are we going to close madrasas and Urdu schools because there aren’t enough children?” he questioned, emphasising the importance of upholding cultural and religious institutions.
BJP leader and Legislative Council member CT Ravi echoed Eshwarappa’s sentiments, labeling the discovery of cow waste in the Netravati river as a manifestation of “fanaticism from evil minds.” He expressed concern that this act was part of a broader trend targeting sacred locations frequented by devotees. “This is not an isolated incident; we are witnessing similar issues across the state. It raises serious questions about whether the laws prohibiting cow slaughter are being enforced effectively in Karnataka,” he asserted.
Ravi demanded clarity from the state government regarding the implementation of cow slaughter laws, expressing doubt about their efficacy under the current administration. “The apparent ease with which illegal slaughter operations occur raises alarms about the government’s commitment to enforcing these laws. Since the Congress government assumed power, there has been a noticeable surge in cow slaughter and theft, with perpetrators feeling emboldened,” he claimed.
