Nanjangud: Farmers and villagers have expressed anger over alleged irregularities in the functioning of the primary veterinary clinic at Byalaru in Nanjangud taluk, claiming that the veterinarian signs the attendance register but remains unavailable to treat livestock.
According to villagers, the veterinarian does not report for duty on time and leaves the clinic shortly after marking attendance. They allege that even when doctors arrive around 10 am, they remain at the centre for only about half an hour before leaving.
The alleged absenteeism has caused difficulties for farmers who depend on the clinic for medical care for their cattle and other livestock. Farmers from Byalaru and neighbouring villages, including Deburu and Handuvinahalli, regularly approach the centre for treatment and veterinary assistance.
However, they claim that the absence of the veterinarian has left sick animals without timely medical attention, causing distress among livestock owners.
Farmers allege irregular attendance
Villagers have alleged that the veterinarian’s attendance and working hours are not being properly maintained. They claim that doctors arrive at the clinic, sign the attendance register and leave after a brief stay.
They have also pointed out that the duty schedule, which was earlier displayed on the clinic wall, has reportedly been erased.
The villagers say the lack of clarity over duty timings has added to the difficulties faced by farmers seeking veterinary services. Those visiting the centre often find that the doctor is unavailable, forcing them to return without receiving the required treatment for their animals.
The allegations have raised questions about the monitoring of attendance and the enforcement of duty hours at the veterinary centre.
Farmers asked to purchase medicines outside
Farmers have also raised concerns over the availability of medicines at the clinic. According to them, people bringing their livestock for treatment are sometimes given prescriptions and asked to purchase the medicines from outside.
They allege that the situation is linked to the non-availability of essential medicines supplied through the government.
The shortage of medicines, combined with the reported absence of the veterinarian, has made it difficult for livestock owners to obtain timely treatment at the government facility.
For farmers who depend on cattle and other livestock for their livelihoods, delays in diagnosis and treatment can have serious consequences. They say the clinic should have adequate medicines and staff to provide the services expected of a government veterinary facility.
Villagers seek action from authorities
The Department of Animal Husbandry is responsible for providing essential veterinary services, including diagnosis, treatment, vaccination and other healthcare support for livestock.
Farmers have questioned how these services can be delivered effectively if veterinarians are unavailable during working hours. They have urged senior officials to ensure that the clinic functions regularly and that departmental rules regarding attendance and duty timings are followed.
Bailaru Anand, convener of the Karnataka State Dalit Sangharsha Samiti, has urged Nanjangud MLA Darshan Dhruvanarayan to intervene in the matter.
He has requested the MLA to take the allegations seriously and conduct a surprise inspection of the Byalaru Veterinary Centre to assess its functioning.
Anand has also demanded appropriate action against officials found guilty of dereliction of duty. He called for measures to ensure the uninterrupted availability of veterinary services and essential medicines for farmers.
Livestock health a major concern for farmers
Livestock plays an important role in the livelihoods of many farming families, making access to veterinary care essential. Farmers depend on government veterinary centres for timely treatment, vaccinations and medicines, particularly when animals fall ill.
Villagers say the alleged irregular functioning of the Byalaru clinic has affected not only residents of the village but also livestock owners from surrounding areas who depend on the facility.
They have called for regular monitoring of staff attendance, adherence to prescribed duty hours and adequate stocks of essential medicines.
Anand said negligence in matters concerning livestock health, which is closely linked to farmers’ livelihoods, cannot be accepted. He expressed hope that senior officials would intervene and find a lasting solution to the problems at the centre.
The allegations have placed the functioning of the Byalaru veterinary clinic under scrutiny. Farmers are now looking to the elected representative and the Department of Animal Husbandry for an inspection and corrective action to ensure that their livestock receive timely medical attention.