Dairy farmers from Surlaim have warned the Goa government of an agitation, including a march to the state Assembly on August 31, if cattle allegedly taken into the custody of a non-governmental organisation (NGO) are not returned immediately.
The farmers raised the issue on Sunday, claiming that the NGO has been holding their cows for several months and has failed to return them despite repeated requests.
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One of the farmers, Sultan, said he had been contacting the organisation for the past eight months seeking the return of his cattle, which he said are an important source of livelihood for his family.
“I want my cow back,” Sultan said, alleging that the NGO has refused to hand over the animal. He claimed the organisation had told him that after the demolition of a shed in Quepem, the cows had wandered into the jungle and were subsequently taken into its custody.
The farmers have demanded that the government intervene immediately and ensure that their cattle are returned.
A large number of dairy farmers also gathered in support of Sultan and backed the demand for the return of their animals.
The farmers warned that if the government fails to resolve the matter, they will stage a march to the Assembly on August 31, coinciding with the ongoing Assembly session.
The farmers said the cattle are not merely livestock but a crucial source of income, and urged the authorities to intervene before the issue escalates further.
