HP High Court Questions the Misuse of Funds for Gaushalas as Animal Welfare Remains in Crisis

Shimla, December 16: The Himachal Pradesh High Court has raised serious concerns over the worsening condition of animals in Gaushalas (cow shelters), despite crores of rupees being allocated for their upkeep. Three Public Interest Litigations (PILs) were filed regarding the situation, which led to the court taking strong cognizance of the matter. On Monday, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the reports submitted by the government and the Vigilance Bureau regarding the funds released for the Gaushalas, questioning where the money was being spent.

During the hearing, the court noted that despite the substantial budget allocated for animal welfare, there were no detailed project reports (DPRs), tender processes, or records available for the construction and maintenance of these Gaushalas. The court further highlighted major irregularities in the funds spent on the Gaushalas, as pointed out in the Vigilance Bureau’s report. In its previous ruling, the court had handed over the investigation to the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau in Dharamshala, suspecting that a large-scale financial scam had taken place.

The court found that the government had failed to provide satisfactory answers regarding the use of the funds, and this has prompted them to demand further clarification. One such Gaushala, Luthan Gaushala, has received approximately ₹4 crore for animal care, but despite this, nearly 1,000 animals have reportedly died there. The petitioners argue that the funds were not used effectively to improve the conditions of these shelters.

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In the ongoing proceedings, the court has demanded a comprehensive response from the government and the Vigilance Bureau, with the next hearing scheduled for December 18. This issue has sparked public outcry over the mistreatment of animals despite the significant financial resources allocated to their welfare.

In a related matter, the court also heard a petition from the Bhaat and Khosh Khanet communities, seeking recognition under the Hati ST Act. These communities have challenged a 1955 notification that categorized them under the general and OBC categories, instead of granting them Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The petitioners argue that the Giripar Hati community, like the Kinnaur tribe, should receive comparable development benefits. The court has scheduled the next hearing for March 11, 2024, for further deliberation on this matter.