A total of 629 offenses were recorded and 1,810 individuals were apprehended in Gujarat over the last two years in an extensive campaign targeting illegal cow meat and cattle trafficking. Minister of State for Law, Kaushik Vekariya, highlighted the government’s rigorous enforcement of cattle protection laws, resulting in punitive actions against offenders.
During this period, authorities seized approximately 54,000 kilograms of cow meat and rescued 1,800 cattle destined for slaughterhouses. Additionally, 433 vehicles linked to the offenses were confiscated, with 339 of them subsequently auctioned off. Preventive detention measures under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act were initiated against 184 individuals, and proceedings to exile 50 people were set in motion.
Vekariya disclosed that 39 properties valued at around Rs 6 crore, associated with the accused, were demolished as part of the crackdown. Emphasizing the cultural significance of cows, he underscored their revered status as a symbol of divinity. The state government is appointing Special Public Prosecutors to ensure stringent penalties for the offenders, aiming to prevent their release under any circumstances.
In Amreli district, 12 cases were registered, leading to the sentencing of 21 individuals to imprisonment and fines. Notably, three individuals received life sentences, 11 were handed 10-year terms, and three were sentenced to seven years. A total of Rs 42 lakh in fines was collected from the convicted individuals. In Mahisagar district, eight offenses were reported during the same period, resulting in the confiscation of 1,940 kilograms of cow meat, rescue of 10 bovines, and legal action against 28 suspects. Thirteen vehicles were impounded in the district, with ongoing investigations.
