Dhyan Foundation Alleges Illegal Relocation of Sick Cattle by Goa Authorities

Dhyan Foundation has alleged that Goa authorities, including the Police, Animal Husbandry Department, and local administration, forcibly relocated 102 cattle from its gaushala at Deusa, Zambaulim, in violation of statutory safeguards governing the transport of animals.

According to the Foundation, the relocation followed an order issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and Deputy Collector, which was served on July 26, 2026, giving only 12 hours' notice. The Foundation claims that multiple trucks and a crane entered the gaushala premises with the assistance of officials from the Mamlatdar's office, veterinary department, and Quepem Police to transport the cattle.

The Foundation has further alleged that around 15 of the animals were sick, injured, or otherwise unfit for transport. It claims to have submitted an application requesting that these cattle be exempted from relocation after constructing a temporary shelter for them. However, it alleges that no written order was passed on the request.

The Foundation also contends that the relocation did not comply with the Transport of Animals Rules, 1978, which require government veterinary officers to conduct health examinations and issue "fit-to-travel" certificates before cattle are transported. It has further alleged that the vehicles used for transportation did not meet the legal requirements prescribed under the applicable rules.

According to the Foundation, nearly 182 cattle had gone missing following the earlier demolition of cow sheds at the gaushala, with 11 of them subsequently being traced or returning to the site. It has criticised the authorities for allegedly failing to make adequate efforts to recover the missing animals while proceeding with the relocation.

The Foundation has also levelled allegations against Manjunath Dukle, accusing him of orchestrating the earlier demolition of the gaushala and committing various criminal offences. It further alleged that the administration has failed to take action on its complaints. These allegations have not been independently verified.

Volunteers associated with the Foundation have claimed that repeated requests to ensure compliance with the applicable animal transport laws were ignored by officials present at the site. They further alleged that despite their objections, the relocation continued.

The incident has drawn significant attention on social media, with the Foundation claiming that a video documenting the events has received widespread public engagement. It has urged the Goa Government to intervene and ensure compliance with the law while protecting the welfare of the animals.