Activists save hundreds of animals from sacrifice at Gadhimai Festival  

• This rescue mission is a reminder of the power of collaboration and the growing awareness of animal rights

• As traditions evolve, activists hope to see a future where devotion no longer involves the suffering of innocent lives

PRAVASISAMWAD.COM

In a significant victory for animal welfare, activists have successfully rescued hundreds of animals from being sacrificed at the Gadhimai festival, reported myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com.

 The rescue operation took place at the Nepal-India border, where the animals were handed over to Indian authorities and sent to sanctuaries for safe refuge.

This commendable effort was spearheaded by Sneha’s Care, a Nepal-based animal welfare organization, in collaboration with Indian Animal Welfare Associations, the Indian Animal Welfare Board, Seema Suraksha Bal, and local police.

• Animal activists continue their relentless campaign to challenge and change practices rooted in tradition but detrimental to animal welfare

• They advocate for humane alternatives to such rituals, aiming to inspire compassion and cruelty-free practices among communities

The Gadhimai festival, held in Bariyarpur, Maha Gadhimai Municipality, Bara, is infamous for its mass animal sacrifices offered to the goddess as part of a tradition to fulfill vows. This year, the festival began on November 16, with thousands of animals at risk of cruel slaughter. Thanks to the collective efforts of animal activists, many of these lives were spared.

“These animals, who were about to be subjected to cruel conditions, now have the opportunity to live a better life in sanctuaries where they will be cared for and live free from fear,” said Sneha Shrestha, a prominent animal welfare activist from Nepal.

While the operation was a success, it highlighted glaring challenges. Shrestha expressed gratitude for the robust support from Indian authorities, emphasizing that their assistance was pivotal in saving the animals. However, she voiced disappointment over the lack of cooperation from Nepali authorities, particularly the police and Animal Quarantine departments.

“Stronger coordination among animal welfare groups in Nepal could have saved even more lives,” Shrestha noted, calling for a united approach to end such practices.

The rescued animals were transported under harsh conditions before being intercepted by the activists. Without their intervention, they would have faced a brutal fate. Now, these animals will live in sanctuaries where they can thrive in safety.

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