Mangaluru: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP)–Gauraksha Vibhaga Prantha Prachara Prasara Saha Pramukh Pradeep Saripalla has urged the police to immediately arrest those involved in the alleged illegal slaughter of cattle in the Maravoor–Kenjar area, which falls under the Bajpe police station limits. He issued an ultimatum to the police to act by December 15, warning of a large-scale protest if no action is taken.
Ultimatum issued to police
Speaking to mediapersons, Saripalla said the VHP–Gauraksha Vibhag would not remain silent if the police failed to curb illegal cattle slaughter activities in the region. He warned that a massive protest would be launched if those responsible were not arrested within the stipulated time.
He claimed that the warning was issued in the interest of protecting cattle and maintaining law and order, adding that repeated complaints from local residents had not resulted in effective action so far.
Discarded cattle remains found
Saripalla said that based on a tip-off received from local residents, VHP activists visited the Maravoor–Kenjar area and discovered discarded remains of slaughtered cattle. These included heads, legs, skin, bloodstains and other waste materials dumped across eight to nine bushes in the area.
He further alleged that a few cattle and calves were found tied nearby, raising fears that they too were intended to be slaughtered. According to him, the manner in which the waste was dumped pointed to organised and repeated illegal activity.
Allegation of organised slaughter network
Saripalla alleged that a large and well-organised cattle slaughter network has been operating in the district for several years. He claimed that locals have frequently reported theft of cattle from their sheds and nearby farms, indicating a systematic operation.
He pointed out that Kapila Gaushala is located in the vicinity and said even gaushala authorities have reported repeated theft of cattle from their premises. These incidents, he said, strengthen the suspicion of an organised slaughter mafia functioning with impunity.
Questions over beef supply
Raising concerns over the supply chain, Saripalla alleged that indigenous cattle were being slaughtered and that tonnes of cattle waste were dumped in the area. He questioned how beef stalls were operating openly despite the absence of official slaughterhouses in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
“Official slaughterhouses do not function in these districts. Yet, more than seven beef stalls are operating in the Jokatte area. Where is the red meat coming from?” he asked, demanding a thorough probe into the source of the meat supplied to these outlets.
Demand for strict action
Saripalla urged the Commissioner of Police to personally intervene and ensure that all those involved in the cattle slaughter mafia are identified and arrested. He said illegal slaughtering activities must be brought to a complete halt to prevent further incidents and restore public confidence.
He added that failure to take firm action would compel the VHP–Gauraksha Vibhag to intensify its agitation in the coming days.
Police confirm cases registered
Police officials said that cases have been registered in connection with cattle theft and illegal slaughter. Authorities of Kapila Gaushala have reported the theft of eight cattle, while a local resident has lodged a complaint regarding the theft of one cow.
When police visited the suspected cattle slaughter site in the Maravoor–Kenjar area, they found recently discarded remains of two cattle. In addition, older remains of five to six cattle were also found, which appeared to have been slaughtered a few months ago.
Investigation underway
Police sources said the investigation is ongoing and efforts are being made to identify those involved in the illegal activities. Officials added that further action would be taken based on evidence collected from the site and statements from local residents.
Conclusion
The discovery of cattle remains and allegations of an organised slaughter network have triggered strong reactions from cattle protection groups. As the December 15 deadline set by the VHP approaches, the response of the police and the progress of the investigation are expected to determine whether the situation escalates into a wider protest.