Beef Waste Found in Mrityunjaya River Sparks Outrage in Belthangady
MANGALURU: The reported presence of beef waste in the Mrityunjaya River in Belthangady Taluk has sparked outrage among Hindu outfits, prompting them to call for a protest rally on January 6.
The River, a tributary of the Netravati River, was allegedly polluted with beef waste a few days ago. Activists brought the matter to the attention of authorities but claim no significant action has been taken to identify or apprehend those responsible.
In a Facebook post, VHP South Region joint secretary Sharan Pumpwell stated, “If beef waste is dumped into the Mrityunjaya stream, it will contaminate the Netravati River, polluting the bathing ghats of Dharmasthala. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad urges the Dakshina Kannada police to take immediate action to prevent such acts and ensure that Hindu religious sentiments are respected.”
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle he said that even after 15 days, the culprits have not been arrested.
"Congress leaders who lectured about humanity towards elephants during the legislative session to MLA Harish Poonja, have maintained silence on this incident. The Bajrang Dal will organize a ‘Kakkinje Chalo’ protest on January 6 to condemn the government's negligence,” he added.
Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja also condemned the incident.
“Illegal cattle trafficking and slaughter continue unchecked. During the legislative session, Speaker U.T. Khader reminded me that elephants have the right to live. Similarly, cattle have the right to live, and the government must act decisively against cattle slaughter,” he told reporters.
Bijapur City MLA Basangouda R. Patil Yatnal described the dumping of beef waste as “truly heinous and condemnable.”
In a post on X, Yatnal expressed frustration with the district administration and the Pollution Control Board, remarking, “It is appalling that while they impose strict regulations for festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Deepavali, they turn a blind eye to this grave issue.” He called for urgent measures to safeguard the sanctity of the Netravati River and its tributaries.