Karwar (Karnataka), Feb 4 (PTI): Amid a spate of cow theft cases in Uttara Kannada district, District In-charge Minister Mankal S Vaidya has issued a severe warning, stating that individuals involved in such activities would face extreme consequences, including being shot in public.
Vaidya reaffirmed his commitment to curbing these crimes and assured that the administration is taking stringent measures to safeguard cows and protect the interests of cattle rearers. His statement follows widespread outrage over the recent slaughtering of a pregnant cow near Honnavar.
“Cow theft has been happening for years. I have directed the Superintendent of Police (SP) to put an end to it at any cost. This is unacceptable. Cows are revered, and we grow up drinking their milk,” Vaidya told reporters on Monday.
He emphasized that he had ordered the police to take ruthless action against offenders, regardless of their identity. "Arrests have been made in some cases, but if this continues—though it may be wrong to say this—I will ensure that they are shot in the open. There are enough jobs available in our district; people should work and earn their livelihood instead of engaging in such acts. We will not support such individuals under any circumstances," he added.
Taking a swipe at the opposition BJP, Vaidya accused them of politicizing the issue while remaining inactive during their tenure. He asserted that his government is not turning a blind eye to the problem, pointing to the arrests and FIRsalready registered.
“If we were supporting such crimes, would FIRs and arrests happen? The police department is actively tackling the situation. The Chief Minister, the Home Minister, and the entire administration are committed to protecting cattle rearers. No one should fear; strict action will continue,” he assured.
The minister's strong remarks highlight the escalating tension over cattle-related crimes in Karnataka, where the issue has long been a politically and emotionally charged topic.