Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered immediate action after a disturbing video exposing severe negligence in the care of cattle at the Kanha Upvan Gaushala in Meerut went viral on social media. Following the CM’s directive, the Urban Development Department launched an intensive investigation. As a result, FIRs have been filed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 against two outsourcing agencies, Jain Computers and Shivam Enterprises which was tasked with managing the daily care of over 2,500 cattle at the shelter.
Viral Video Exposes Ground Reality
The crackdown began after a video posted on July 12, 2025, showed cattle in miserable conditions, sparking public outrage. The footage revealed that although food, fodder, and water were available, the cattle were not being fed on time. An inspection led by Assistant Municipal Commissioner Sharad Pal confirmed the absence of several caretakers and staff during duty hours.
Jain Computers had claimed to provide 24 caretakers, while Shivam Enterprises promised 18, but the reality on the ground painted a different picture.
The Meerut Municipal Corporation took swift punitive action. Clerical staff member Vikas Sharma was suspended for poor record-keeping, and FIRs were also registered against veterinary officer Harpal Singh and the gaushala caretaker. Both have been suspended as well.
Further, Assistant Municipal Commissioner Sharad Pal was relieved of his senior supervisory role in the shelter, with Additional Municipal Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Singh appointed in his place. Municipal Health Officer Dr. Gajendra was transferred to the Chief Medical Officer’s office, while for his replacement Dr. Amar Singh has been appointed.
To prevent further negligence, the Municipal Corporation has taken several corrective measures
- 12 CCTV cameras have been installed for continuous surveillance of the gaushala
- Face recognition-based attendance systems have been implemented to track staff presence and ensure accountability
- Flooring is being constructed in sheds lacking proper flooring
- Strict guidelines have been issued for documenting fodder supply, dung removal, and other daily tasks
Additionally, the gaushala now has six home guards and 50 new employees working in two shifts (25 each) to ensure uninterrupted care. The trauma center for injured or sick cattle has been made fully operational for emergency treatment. A land area of 15,000 square meters has also been finalized for expanding the shelter to accommodate more cattle comfortably.
Repeat Offenders Finally Penalized
According to officials, both outsourcing agencies had previously received written and verbal warnings for negligence, but failed to improve conditions. This repeated indifference ultimately led to firm legal action. The Uttar Pradesh government has made it clear that negligence in the maintenance of gaushalas will not be tolerated. The Chief Minister’s office has stressed the importance of compassion and timely care for stray and rescued cattle. A detailed report of the incident and the corrective steps taken has been submitted to the state government.
This incident and the resulting action underline the Yogi government’s strong commitment to the welfare of cattle in the state. The prompt response from the municipal authorities, along with the introduction of new monitoring systems and personnel, is expected to bring lasting improvement in the management of the Kanha Gaushala.
The Uttar Pradesh government headed by CM Yogi has vowed to maintain strict oversight going forward. It ensures that every animal receives the care and dignity it deserves.
