Team Herald
PONDA: Controversy has erupted over the disappearance of an impounded cow at the newly established gaushala in Nirankal-Dabal, set up by the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) for the management of stray cattle. The owner of the cow has called on the government, including Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, the PMC, and Ponda Police, to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
According to social activist Gurudas Naik, a family from Dabal reported to the PMC on July 12, that the gaushala had impounded their two cows, Megna and Godu, while they were left to graze. The family, citing financial difficulties, requested the PMC to release their cows, emphasising that Megna is a milch cow with a small calf that would not survive without her milk.
When the family approached the gaushalas secretary Sanket Tendulkar informed them that the cows had been impounded in accordance with the law, as they were found roaming freely on the streets. He stated that to reclaim their cows, the family would need to pay a fine of Rs 3,000 per animal to the Director of Animal and Veterinary Services in Panjim. The family complied, paying a total of Rs 6,000 for the release of their two cows. However, upon their return to the gaushala with the receipt, they were informed that Megna was missing.
In response, the family filed a police complaint. Ponda PI Vijaynath Kavalekar confirmed that on October 4, an offence was registered against Sanket Tendulkar under Section 316(2) of the BNS for a violation of trust.
Gurudas Naik has raised concerns about how the cow could go missing, given that the gaushala is equipped with a CCTV system and fencing. He has demanded a thorough investigation into the incident.
Meanwhile, when approached for comment, gaushala secretary Sanket Tendulkar reiterated that the cows were impounded legally. He stated that after the fines were paid, he was unaware of how one cow went missing. He and a gaushala worker conducted a search for Megna and subsequently filed a complaint with the PMC regarding the missing cow, which was then reported to the police by the Chief Officer.