Social activist Sanjay Kumar Mishra seeks action against illegal cattle transportation in Odisha .

By Akshya Rout

Jajpur,16/09(PPT) : Social activist Sanjay Kumar Mishra has urged the Odisha Government and law-enforcement agencies to take steps to prevent the alleged illegal transportation of cattle from the State and initiate action against those found violating applicable laws. Mr. Mishra said complaints of cattle being transported from Odisha to neighbouring States and other destinations had surfaced from time to time and called for closer monitoring of routes used for such transportation and stronger enforcement at entry and exit points. He said reports of cattle being transported at night in trucks, pickup vans and other vehicles warranted greater scrutiny, and any transportation carried out in violation of prescribed rules should be investigated promptly and dealt with in accordance with the law. He also called for better coordination among the local administration, police and the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department in areas where such complaints are reported, along with regular inspections and checks of vehicles suspected of violating transportation norms. The issue, he said, should be viewed not only from the perspective of law enforcement but also from that of animal welfare and humane transportation of livestock. Where cattle are rescued during enforcement operations, adequate arrangements should be made for their immediate care and safety, he said. Mr. Mishra further suggested regular surveillance of highways and border areas, prompt verification of complaints and greater public awareness about reporting suspected violations to the authorities. He stressed the need to distinguish between lawful transportation of cattle and illegal movement so that enforcement action is based on established rules and verified violations. Calling for stricter implementation of existing regulations, Mr. Mishra urged the authorities to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and take action against those found responsible for violations while ensuring the welfare of the animals involved.