‘Is cattle-rearing Unlawful?

The Gujarat Assembly recently passed the Gujarat Cattle Control (Keeping and Movement) in Urban Areas Bill 2022, which provides the state government and local bodies the authority to declare parts of an urban area or an entire urban area as 'prohibited zones' for cattle rearing and movement.

Violations will now be a cognizable offense under the new law, which has been challenged by the maldhari community of cattle-raisers.

Sarju Varu, 30, who owns 10 cows and 2 buffaloes in Milpara, Rajkot's center, is dissatisfied with the law.

What impact will the new law have on you?

Fodder will not be widely available under the new law; it will only be sold in designated areas. In that scenario, maintaining my herd will be a pricey endeavor because I don't know where I'll have to travel to buy feed. And if they declare Milpara as a prohibited zone, I'll be compelled to relocate my herd to somewhere beyond the city. In the city, I have 125 customers. Given the current price of gasoline, how will I be able to afford two trips to the city every day if I have to move out? This law will further push us maldharis to the margins of the city. I think this is a conspiracy in favor of big dairies.

Since when have you been living in Rajkot?

My grandfather Lakshmanbhai migrated to Rajkot city from Motavada, a village 35 km from here, around 60 years ago. This city has been home to four generations of our family.

Are maldharis taking up other occupations?

We are traditionally milk suppliers, but gradually, maldharis have begun running tea stalls in cities and towns. The community is also getting into milk processing — one of my cousins has set up a paneer plant.

Is cattle-rearing compatible with the urban landscape?

Is cattle-rearing an illegal activity? We maldharis are just practicing our traditional occupation.

What, in your opinion, is the solution?

Cattle should not be allowed to roam freely on the streets, in my opinion. But the fundamental issue is that bulls and male calves are no longer useful. I am not opposed to the legislation, but the government should consider our means of subsistence as well. Even if we move beyond the city limits, we will be evicted again as the city expands.

However, if the government grants us land, even if it is on the outskirts but with long-term guarantees, we can contemplate moving out. If the government can provide property to an Amul dairy, it can undoubtedly give land to maldharis, who provide milk to everyone, including Amul.