Residents and animal welfare groups in Guwahati expressed alarm on Thursday after a camel was spotted in Kadong, a locality in Barpeta district, Assam. The sighting of this unusual desert animal in Assam’s floodplains raised suspicions and prompted urgent calls for police intervention.
Social media posts tagged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the Director General of Assam Police, with concerned citizens asking, “A camel was seen yesterday at Kadong in Barpeta district. Who brought it here and for what reason? We suspect it has been brought for slaughter. We urge Barpeta Police to rescue the camel and take strict action against those responsible.”
Kangkana Manu Sarma, General Secretary of the NGO Generosity Assam, which focuses on wildlife protection, highlighted the seriousness of the situation. “The incident is deeply disturbing. We urge the authorities to act swiftly. The camel is not only out of place in Assam’s ecology but is also vulnerable to cruelty,” she stated on Friday.
Camels are primarily adapted to India’s arid and semi-arid regions, notably Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Haryana. Their ability to endure extreme heat and survive with minimal water makes them suited for desert climates. They are commonly used for transportation, agriculture, and cultural festivals, conditions markedly different from Assam’s humid, flood-prone environment.
Experts noted that camels are sometimes transported far from their natural habitats for commercial purposes, including religious events and exhibitions. Nomadic communities, like the Banjara, occasionally bring camels into the Northeast. However, when these animals become ill or are unable to continue traveling, some owners abandon them, subjecting them to neglect, abuse, or illegal trade.
Animal rights activists have called on Barpeta authorities to trace the camel’s origins, ensure its safe rehabilitation, and prevent illegal slaughter. They argue that this incident reflects broader issues of animal welfare related to the unregulated movement of non-native species into unsuitable environments, where they face cruelty and inadequate care.
Veterinary specialists have warned of serious health risks for camels in Assam’s climate. Wildlife observers indicate that this incident illustrates a global trend of animal displacement and trafficking. When taken from their native habitats, animals often confront increased risks of cruelty and survival challenges.
Experts recommend relocating rescued animals to appropriate sanctuaries, such as the National Research Centre on Camel in Bikaner, Rajasthan, which can provide suitable care and rehabilitation for camels.
Original Source: https://nenow.in/north-east-news/assam/camel-sighting-in-assam-sparks-fears-of-slaughter-ngo-demands-rescue.html
Category: Assam,Environment,Northeast News,Top News,Camel
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-09-06 07:41:00
