Congress jabs BJP over cow order in Rajasthan: Failed to perform its duty

The Congress party in Rajasthan has condemned the ruling BJP government following an order which stated that referring to cows as “stray” is “inappropriate” and “insulting.” The order suggested that such cows and other bovine animals should instead be termed “destitute” or “helpless.”
“The BJP has been indulging in politics over cows. The fact that it wants cows to be termed ‘helpless’ or ‘destitute’ means that it has not performed its duty,” former Rajasthan minister Pratap Singh Khachariyavas told India Today.
He emphasised that this terminology change reflects the government’s failure to provide adequate care and support for cows.
The government order highlighted the cultural significance of bovine animals, noting, “Bovine animals are an important part of our cultural heritage. During present times, some bovine animals become destitute and helpless due to several reasons and can be seen in helpless condition on roads and other public places. The use of the word ‘stray’ for such bovine animals is inappropriate and insulting, which is contrary to our cultural values.”
It further stated, “That is why it is desired that bovine animals roaming around on their own be termed/addressed as ‘destitute/helpless’ rather than ‘stray.'”
The issue of cow welfare has been a focal point in Rajasthan’s politics, particularly in the lead-up to elections.
In response to the Congress criticism, Rajasthan minister Joraram Kumawat defended the BJP, stating, “The BJP government in Rajasthan has taken several measures for the welfare of cows.”
A total of 31 Rajasthan MLAs have written a letter to Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma demanding the status of rajmata (mother of state) for cows in a bid to keep illegal cow slaughter at bay.