Five bovines, including four cows and one male calf, were rescued from suspected illegal transportation in Mamring, South Sikkim, during a late-night operation on July 24. The animals were found in a utility vehicle under inhumane conditions and were allegedly being transported to West Bengal for illegal slaughter.

Alerted by local animal activists, police at Melli intercepted the vehicle and took immediate custody of the animals. Veterinary officials from the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department, including Deputy Director Dr Siddhant Pradhan and Veterinary Officer Dr Tshering Bhutia, provided on-the-spot first aid to stabilise the animals.

The rescued bovines were later shifted to Mamring Gaushala, a government-operated facility dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of rescued and injured cattle. The Gaushala, recently inaugurated by the Prime Minister, is currently housing the animals under the care of Dr Urgen Bhutia and his veterinary team, following the centre’s standard operating procedures.

The Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department stated that this action reinforces Sikkim’s commitment to enforcing the Sikkim Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act, 2017, and acts as a deterrent against illegal animal transport.

Authorities are now considering the return of the animals to their rightful owners after proper counselling to ensure future compliance with animal welfare regulations.