The DGP said police have been instructed, as per decisions taken at the chief ministerial level, to strictly prevent illegal cattle transportation.
Hyderabad:Telangana director general of police C.V. Anand has warned of stringent measures to maintain peace, public order, and communal harmony during the forthcoming Bakrid festival.
Anand, along with senior officials, held a video conference with police commissioners and district superintendents on Wednesday. Special chief secretary (MA&UD) Jayesh Ranjan, Animal Husbandry secretary K. Ilambarithi, and other senior officers participated.
The DGP said police have been instructed, as per decisions taken at the chief ministerial level, to strictly prevent illegal cattle transportation. He announced 52 inter‑state check posts along borders with Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh, in addition to 203 within Telangana. Officials were told to intensify vehicle checks, monitor cattle fairs, and verify ‘Fit for Transport’ and ‘Fit for Slaughter’ certificates until the festival concludes.
Calling Bakrid a sensitive festival, Anand stressed heightened vigilance to avert communal tension. He directed strict enforcement of the Cow Slaughter Act, 1977, Transport of Animals Rules, 1978, and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, warning of stern legal action against violators.
He cautioned that no group should take the law into its own hands, advising Qureshi associations and cow protection groups against road blockades or confrontations. Criminal cases and rowdy sheets would be opened against offenders.
Police commissioners and SPs were asked to hold coordination meetings with both groups, raise awareness, and ensure close cooperation with municipal, animal husbandry, and revenue departments. Anand directed formation of WhatsApp groups for quick communication, provision of cattle shelters with fodder and water, and strict monitoring of social media to curb provocative content.
Recalling past incidents, he urged officers to prevent any untoward events this year. Jayesh Ranjan said municipal officials are on high alert, while Ilambarithi assured veterinary doctors would be available round the clock to issue required certificates. Senior officers including Mahesh M. Bhagwat, Chandrasekhar Reddy, Shahnawaz Qasim, Karthikeya, and Bhaskaran also offered suggestions.
