From Our Correspondent
TURA, Aug 23: The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) has called for an investigation into the illegal sale and transport of oxen through Meghalaya after a vehicle was found carrying cattle with fake documents.
“This afternoon, at about 3:10 pm, vigilant citizens intercepted a Mahindra pick-up van bearing registration number AS34C1002 at Nidanpur, West Garo Hills, while it was engaged in the illegal transportation of cattle without valid transit or transportation documents. The vehicle was found carrying oxen purportedly purchased from Jaleswar, Assam, under questionable documents that fail to meet the mandatory requirements prescribed under law,” stated CoMSO.
According to CoMSO, the seized papers, though issued by the Jaleswar Go-Haat Committee (Assam), only certify sale between private parties.
“These certificates are not equivalent to legal transit permits, health check clearance, or transportation licenses mandated under the Transport of Animals Rules, 1978, the Transport of Animals on Foot Rules, 2001, and other provisions under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, as well as the Meghalaya Cattle Protection and Preservation Act,” the organisation added.
The CoMSO further said the illegal movement of cattle raises serious concerns, as it constitutes violations of Animal Transport Rules (no transit permit, no veterinary clearance), possible cross-border smuggling, unlawful slaughter trade and law-and-order risks due to communal tensions and trafficking networks.
An FIR has been lodged by residents at the Bogulurbhita Outpost in West Garo Hills.
“It is further noted that these illegal consignments are often disguised with incomplete or manipulated documents that are insufficient under Meghalaya law. The certificates seized (Form G, dated Aug 18, issued at Jaleswar, Assam) merely indicate purchase but do not authorize interstate transportation into Meghalaya. The public has strongly condemned this unlawful activity and has demanded action,” CoMSO stated.
The organisation has demanded the registration of an FIR under appropriate sections of the IPC, Cattle Preservation Laws and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, as well as the immediate seizure of the vehicle and cattle.
They also urged a strict investigation into the role of traders, transporters, and buyers involved, along with stronger border vigilance to prevent further illegal trafficking of cattle into Meghalaya.