Chandigarh Gaushala Tragedy Sparks Outrage and Swift Action
In a deeply disturbing incident, approximately fifty cattle met their end under mysterious circumstances at the municipal corporation-run gaushala in Raipur Kalan, Chandigarh. The shocking discovery on Wednesday immediately triggered public outrage and prompted rapid administrative measures.
Immediate Administrative Response
The Municipal Corporation took stern action following the tragic event. They terminated all contractual staff assigned to the gaushala. Additionally, the corporation suspended Medical Officer of Health Dr. Inderdeep Kaur and cattle pound inspector Parveen Kumar from their duties.
The UT administration ordered a comprehensive magisterial inquiry to investigate the matter thoroughly. Additional Deputy Commissioner Amandeep Singh Bhatti will lead this probe. He must submit his findings within one week to Deputy Commissioner Nishat Kumar Yadav.
Investigative Measures Underway
Authorities are conducting autopsies and viscera tests on the deceased animals. These examinations aim to determine the precise cause of death. Deputy Commissioner Yadav stated that preliminary findings indicate significant lapses in animal care and gaushala management. He emphasized that accountability will be firmly established.
The investigation panel includes SDM (East) Khushpreet Kaur, Animal Husbandry Director Naveen, and the area SDPO. Police have registered an FIR regarding the incident. The Deputy Commissioner directed all relevant departments to provide complete cooperation with the ongoing inquiry.
Site Visits and Immediate Actions
Senior officials including Municipal Commissioner Amit Kumar, DC Nishat Kumar Yadav, and SSP Kawardeep Kaur personally visited the gaushala site. Sources revealed that the deaths occurred over several days amidst reportedly insanitary conditions.
Late in the evening, authorities cremated the carcasses under the supervision of the SDM. The matter received immediate attention at the highest levels, with officials briefing the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator about the situation.
Public Reaction and Political Responses
The incident provoked strong protests from local residents who expressed anger over the tragedy. Political parties quickly responded to the developing situation.
Chandigarh Congress president H.S. Lucky, accompanied by Congress councillors, visited the site. They alleged severe mismanagement, poor sanitation practices, and inadequate arrangements at the facility. The party demanded immediate and strict action against officials responsible for what they called "grave negligence."
Local MP Manish Tewari expressed his views on social media platform X. He described the incident as truly appalling and shameful. Tewari called for the dismissal of responsible officials and emphasized that the inquiry should not become a mechanism to delay accountability. He expressed hope that the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator would ensure justice for the animals.
The Chandigarh unit of the Aam Aadmi Party voiced outrage over the death of numerous cows and calves at the gaushala. AAP president Vijaypal Singh stated that the carcasses suggested gross negligence by the management. Meanwhile, the local BJP unit chose to remain silent regarding the incident.
Preventive Measures Announced
The Municipal Corporation announced several preventive steps to avoid similar tragedies in the future. They have entrusted the Joint Commissioner with conducting fortnightly review meetings with gaushala sanchalaks.
A dedicated team of doctors from the Animal Husbandry Department will now make regular visits to gaushalas. Their purpose is to conduct periodic medical check-ups and monitor animal health, ensuring timely treatment and overall well-being.
The corporation plans to install CCTV cameras at gaushalas to enable round-the-clock monitoring. This measure aims to enhance transparency and strengthen supervision of animal care, safety, and overall management practices.
Probe Mandate and Objectives
The inquiry committee has received clear directives regarding their investigation. They must identify both immediate and underlying causes of the cattle deaths, including potential factors like medical neglect or infected fodder.
The panel will determine whether any acts of commission or omission occurred on the part of gaushala management or public servants responsible for oversight. They will examine all relevant records, including veterinary post-mortem reports and viscera sample results.
Finally, the committee must suggest systemic improvements and preventive measures to ensure such incidents do not recur in the future. The tragic loss of these animals has highlighted serious concerns about animal welfare management in municipal facilities.
