Alarming Rise: How Veterinary Certification Sparks Outrage Over Illegal Cattle Transport in Dhubri
Concerns have emerged over the process of issuing cattle transportation certificates in Dhubri district, as allegations surface about unauthorized certifications by veterinary officials below the rank of Assistant Director or SDO (District Animal Husbandry Officer). This practice contravenes the Animal Welfare Board of India’s (AWBI) guidelines, which mandate that only State Government Veterinarians of requisite seniority certify animals for transport via truck or rail, as stipulated in Rule 96 of the Transport of Animals (Amendment) Rules, 2001.
Despite these regulations, reports indicate that lower-ranking officials in Dhubri are purportedly issuing these certificates, raising doubts about their motives. Such irregularities are particularly troubling given that suspected cattle smugglers often leverage these documents to circumvent law enforcement, exploiting any ambiguities in certification procedures among police forces.
The issue came to light on February 20, when locals intercepted livestock—specifically a buffalo with its calf and two cows with two calves—suspected of being smuggled. Police were confused about the legality of the transportation, as the animals carried a fitness certificate from the Block Veterinary Officer of Gauripur’s Block Veterinary Dispensary. This documentation was issued despite the presence of senior veterinary officers stationed along the transportation route in Agomani, Golakganj, and Balajan, sparking skepticism about the legitimacy of the certificate issued from Gauripur.
This incident has led to increased calls for an investigation to uncover any underlying misconduct, given that the Gauripur officer lacks the authorization to issue such certificates. The incident highlights the urgent need for more stringent enforcement of AWBI guidelines and improved coordination between veterinary authorities and law enforcement agencies. Better compliance is essential to prevent the misuse of transport certifications, which often facilitates illegal cattle trade practices.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/assam-veterinary-certification-fuels-illegal-cattle-transport-concerns-in-dhubri-1174221-2025-02-22?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-02-22 15:28:00
