Cow deaths at gaushala: Activists allege neglect by authorities

The Kamalpur Gaushala, operating under the Kapurthala administration, has come under sharp criticism after social activists uncovered appalling conditions during a recent inspection. Gau Sewa activists Deepak Jyoti and Harjeet, who visited the shelter earlier this week, described the state of the gaushala as “hellish” and “deeply distressing”.

During their visit, the activists found six dead cows lying unattended within the premises. Several other animals were visibly ill and in need of urgent medical attention, yet no veterinary support or basic treatment was available at the site.

Deepak Jyoti, a long-time advocate for animal welfare, expressed shock at the state of affairs. “The cows are not being given fresh fodder or clean drinking water. They are being fed only dry straw, which lacks essential nutrients. There are no proper shelters, no sanitation and no arrangements to protect them from the scorching heat,” he said.

This is not the first time the Kamalpur Gaushala has been flagged for mismanagement. The same activists had conducted an inspection on March 30 this year and raised similar concerns. However, despite bringing the issues to the notice of authorities, no corrective measures were taken.

Jyoti alleged that while the government has collected billions in cow cess in the name of cattle welfare, the funds are not being utilised appropriately. “If the government has taken control of the gaushala, it must also take full responsibility for the well-being of the animals,” he added, calling the current situation a “failure of duty and compassion”.