Karnataka Govt Modifies BJP's Cow Shelter Plan; BJP Accuses Congress of 'Cow-icide'

Bengaluru, October 26, 2023 – The Karnataka government has significantly altered a proposal by the previous BJP administration to construct 100 cow shelters across the state. The Congress government's revised plan, unveiled yesterday, reduces the number of shelters and shifts the focus towards improving existing facilities and promoting scientific cattle management. This move has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, which accuses the ruling party of neglecting the welfare of cows.

The BJP government, led by Basavaraj Bommai, had allocated ₹500 crore for the ambitious project to build 100 large-scale cow shelters. The plan aimed to address the issue of stray cattle, a persistent problem across the state. However, the Congress government, after assuming power in May, initiated a review of the project.

The revised plan, according to sources within the animal husbandry department, will prioritize upgrading existing gaushalas (cow shelters) and establishing smaller, more localized facilities. The emphasis will be on improving infrastructure, providing better veterinary care, and implementing sustainable practices for cattle management. The exact number of new shelters to be constructed under the modified plan hasn't been officially disclosed, but it's significantly lower than the original 100.

"The previous government's plan was poorly conceived and lacked transparency," claimed Animal Husbandry Minister, [Insert Minister's Name], while defending the government's decision. "Our focus is on a more practical and sustainable approach that addresses the root causes of the stray cattle problem, rather than simply building large, expensive shelters." The minister further added that the government is exploring the possibility of establishing fodder banks and promoting scientific methods of cattle breeding and management.

The BJP, however, has strongly condemned the changes, accusing the Congress of betraying its commitment to cow protection. "This is nothing short of cow-icide," declared [Insert BJP Leader's Name], a prominent BJP leader. "The Congress government has shown its true colours by abandoning the ambitious project that would have provided shelter and care for thousands of cows. This decision reflects their utter disregard for the sentiments of the people." The BJP has pledged to raise the issue in the upcoming legislative session and launch a statewide protest against the government's decision.

The controversy surrounding the cow shelter plan is likely to intensify in the coming weeks, adding to the already strained political atmosphere in the state. The debate highlights the complex interplay between political agendas, animal welfare, and resource allocation in Karnataka. The long-term impact of the revised plan on the management of stray cattle remains to be seen.