New Delhi: Dhyan Foundation, an organisation engaged in animal rescue and welfare activities, has raised serious concerns over the challenges it is facing while carrying out its work across the country.
According to the foundation, it has been serving the nation for more than two decades and has been working for the welfare of animals for around 15 years. For the past several years, it has also been working closely with the Border Security Force (BSF) along the Indo-Bangladesh border to help curb illegal cattle trafficking.
The foundation claims that its efforts have resulted in the rescue and rehabilitation of more than 80,000 cattle, which are being provided shelter and care through its network of gaushalas and shelters across several states.
Foundation Claims Cooperation with BSF
Dhyan Foundation said that, according to letters issued by BSF officials, its organisation has played an important role in helping rescue cattle and provide them with shelter. The foundation claims that cattle smuggling and attacks by smugglers on BSF personnel have reduced significantly in areas where its work has been carried out.
The organisation further stated that it does not receive CSR funding for these activities and has been bearing the expenses of its animal welfare operations through its own resources.
Foundation Says It Has Reached a “Breaking Point”
The foundation has now expressed concern that rising operational costs and increasing challenges are putting its animal welfare activities under severe pressure.
It alleged that expenses related to transporting cattle rescued by the BSF from border areas to shelters have not been reimbursed for the past several years. The organisation also alleged that some of its vehicles have been stopped or damaged and that its volunteers have faced attacks and intimidation in different states.
The foundation further alleged that incidents of threats and hostility have increased, creating difficulties for its staff, volunteers and suppliers.
Goa Incident Also Mentioned
The press note refers to an alleged attack on a gaushala in Goa and claims that several individuals were named in an FIR concerning the incident. The foundation has alleged that it subsequently faced further difficulties in obtaining access to its rescued cattle and had to approach the High Court in connection with the matter.
The organisation has made serious allegations against certain local officials and individuals in relation to the transportation and custody of cattle. These allegations, however, would require verification by the concerned authorities.
Appeal for Intervention
Dhyan Foundation said that it has spent approximately ₹350 crore over more than two decades on its service activities and is now reaching what it describes as a “breaking point” because of the increasing challenges.
The foundation stated that the number of animals under its care continues to rise, while expenses related to fodder, transportation, shelter, staff and veterinary care are also increasing.
The organisation has appealed to the concerned authorities to examine the issues raised by it and ensure that animal welfare activities are not disrupted.
