CM firm on cow protection

Tribune News Service

Dehradun, March 20

The newly formed BJP government in Uttarakhand will strengthen the cow protection activities under the Protection of Cow Progeny Act 2007, Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat said here today.

Speaking with mediapersons, Rawat said, “We will initiate concrete steps to protect cow. The Act took shape in 2007, when I was the Animal Husbandry Minister,” he said.

According to the Act, cow slaughter in Uttarakhand is an offence punishable with rigorous imprisonment for three to 10 years and fine of Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. The Act also stated that penalty would be imposed on anyone found selling beef or possessing it.

Further, Rawat said the government would also frame a strong policy to curb migration from the state. “As we share international borders, exodus from border villages is a cause for concern. We need to frame a strong policy to curb migration. We will hold discussions with all stakeholders settled in or outside Uttarakhand about cubing migration,” he said.

Highlighting the role the industries played in income generation, Rawat said, “We need to look at the reasons behind the flight of industries from Uttarakhand. We need to address the reasons behind their migration and resolve them as industries play a big role in income generation.”

The Chief Minister also reiterated his government’s commitment to reviving the Kandi road that passes through the Corbett National Park for better transportation and integration of Kumaon and Garhwal. As of now, those travelling to Kumaon from Garhwal have to pass through certain areas of Uttar Pradesh.

When asked if his government will review the decision of the previous Congress government, he replied, “We will look into the feasibility aspect and in case changes have to be made, these will be done.”