Farmers, activists lock horns over stray cattle in Palampur

Palampur and its adjoining areas continue to grapple with the growing stray cattle menace, with the state government failing to address the issue. Frustrated by repeated inaction, residents of Arla panchayat, located 6 km from Palampur, took matters into their own hands by capturing and tying up two dozen stray cattle on the outskirts of their village.

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Farmers allege that these animals have been destroying standing crops, forcing many to abandon their fields. Despite lodging multiple complaints with local authorities, including the SDM and the Deputy Commissioner, no concrete steps have been taken to either impound the animals or relocate them to cow sanctuaries. Stray cattle continue to roam freely, often settling in deserted fields, causing further agricultural losses.

Villagers expressed their frustration, highlighting that the government has been collecting a cow cess of Rs 10 per bottle for rehabilitating stray animals. Although the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government announced plans to establish gosadans (community cowsheds) using these funds, no such facility has been developed in Palampur or nearby areas over the past two years.

Meanwhile, the conflict between farmers and animal activists has intensified. Robin, an animal rights activist and founder of the NGO Peepal Farm, arrived at Arla village with his team, urging farmers to release the cattle, arguing that their confinement amounted to cruelty. However, the villagers refused, demanding that the animals be shifted to cow sanctuaries before they release them. Robin also sought intervention from local authorities, but no immediate action was taken.

Palampur SDM Netra Meti acknowledged receiving a complaint from Peepal Farm and stated that she had instructed animal health department officials to inspect the situation. She added that further action would be taken after receiving their report.

The crisis has raised concerns among locals and social activists alike. BK Sood, a member of Palampur Sani Sewa Sadan, pointed out that most abandoned cattle are non-productive, having stopped giving milk. Managing such a large number of stray animals without continuous government support is a major challenge. While the administration remains sluggish in resolving the crisis, tensions between farmers and animal activists continue to rise, increasing the risk of further conflicts.