When the importance of women’s safety is ranked lower than that of cattle in our country, it’s safe to say that our country isn’t even back to square one, it’s beyond repair. Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vijay Rupani recently claimed that the BJP was committed to protect ‘Gau, Ganga and Gita’. With the latest amendment to the law, it goes to prove that the Government could legitimately make a difference when it comes to women’s safety laws; but would rather provide more security and stricter laws for cattle.

Previously, while Narendra Modi was still chief minister of Gujarat, he had amended the Gujarat Animal Preservation Act, 1954, completely banning the slaughter and transportation of cows, in 2011. Anyone found violating this law, would previously be imprisoned for seven years, or be fined up to INR 50,000. Vehicles used to transport these cows, would be seized by the authorities for upto six months. Now, with the latest amendment to the law, not only do you risk life imprisonment, but the fine for this has also increased to anywhere between INR 1 lakh to INR 5 lakh. Vehicles used for transportation can also be seized permanently.

Not to forget, the offence will likely be non-bailable. According to a report by NDTV, the bill was passed on the last day of the budget session of the House, while the opposition (Congress) was absent, as they had walked out on some other subject. Apparently, this is the legacy the current Government would like to leave behind.

Feature Image Credit — Youth Connect