Pro-VHP outfit announces save-cow campaign

Kottayam: Protesting Congress-led UDF government's stand against cow slaughter ban, a pro-VHP organisation on Monday announced a "Goraksha" (save cow) campaign in the state, offering 'rewards' for rescuing the milch animal.

Kerala Hindu Helpline, which has initiated the controversial 'ghar vapsi' programme of VHP in the state, said in a release here that under its campaign those who "rescue" cows being taken to slaughter houses would be "honoured and well rewarded."

The announcement comes days after Chief Minister Oommen Chandy had said in the Assembly that the Union Government's push for a ban on cow slaughter will not be implemented in the state.

Accusing the state government of not taking action against hundreds of illegal slaughter houses and meat shops operating in the state, the outfit urged the people to participate in the 'save cow' campaign and rescue the cows being transported in large numbers.

The Kerala Hindu helpline alleged that the illegal slaughter houses and meat shops pollute environment and create health problems to the people living in its vicinity.

The ruling Congress-led UDF and opposition CPI-M headed LDF have come out against any move to impose a nation-wide ban on cow slaughter and beef, dubbing it as an encroachment on personal liberty.