MANGALURU: Members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal staged a protest in the city on Monday, alleging that the Karnataka government is attempting to weaken the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020. The demonstration, held on December 9, 2025, drew participation from activists, religious leaders and supporters who expressed strong opposition to any proposed amendments to the law.
Protesters gather at Clock Tower
Protesters assembled in front of the Clock Tower, a prominent public space in Mangaluru, raising slogans against the state government. Demonstrators claimed that the administration is considering changes that would “dilute” the protections currently provided to cattle, thereby encouraging illegal slaughter. They alleged that the proposed amendments would favour those involved in cattle trade for slaughter and undermine efforts to curb cow slaughter in the state.
Many protesters held placards and banners demanding that the government withdraw any such proposals immediately. Traffic in the area slowed down for a brief period as the gathering drew considerable public attention.
Swami Rajasekharananda criticises government stance
Addressing the protesters, Rajasekharananda Swami of Vajradehi Math delivered a strong speech criticising the government. He alleged that the administration is indirectly supporting individuals involved in cattle slaughter and is acting against traditional and cultural sentiments attached to the protection of cattle.
The seer called upon the government to drop the proposed amendments without delay. He emphasised that the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020, was enacted to protect cattle and uphold longstanding cultural values. According to him, any modification that eases restrictions would be a step backward and detrimental to efforts made over the years to safeguard cattle from illegal slaughter and transport.
Demand for stronger enforcement of the 2020 Act
Protesters not only opposed the alleged amendments but also demanded stronger enforcement of the existing law. VHP and Bajrang Dal members said that despite the 2020 Act, illegal cattle smuggling and slaughter continue in certain parts of the state due to lapses in implementation. They urged the government to enhance monitoring mechanisms, strengthen vigilance at border points and provide additional support to law enforcement agencies handling such cases.
Speakers at the protest reiterated that cattle hold significant cultural, religious and economic value, especially to rural communities and farmers. They stated that weakening the law would cause distress among those who rely on cattle for agriculture, dairy and livelihood purposes.
Concerns over possible amendments
Though specific details of the alleged proposed amendments were not publicly outlined during the protest, participants expressed fears that the government may alter sections related to transport, slaughter permissions, or legal penalties. Protest leaders demanded complete transparency from the government regarding any discussions related to the Act.
They also warned that if the government proceeds with amendments perceived as anti-cattle protection, larger and more widespread protests could be organised across Karnataka.
Political and community implications
The Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020, has been a subject of political debate since its introduction. While supporters argue that the law protects cattle and prevents illegal slaughter, critics have previously contended that strict regulations could negatively affect farmers, transporters and meat industry workers.
The protest in Mangaluru brings renewed focus to the broader political discourse surrounding cattle-related legislation in the state. With the opposition from right-wing groups growing stronger, any attempt to revise the Act is likely to face significant scrutiny.
Conclusion
The demonstration concluded peacefully, with organisers submitting a memorandum demanding that the government withdraw any proposed amendments to the 2020 Act and instead take steps to strengthen its enforcement. Police personnel were deployed at the protest site to ensure order, and the event dispersed without incident.
The issue is expected to remain at the centre of public debate, especially with religious and cultural leaders expressing strong concerns about changes to the law. The state government has yet to issue an official response addressing the allegations raised by the protesters.