People of Gosaling Gewog in Tsirang are not happy with a slaughterhouse in their vicinity. The slaughterhouse which they gave consent seven years ago is being asked to be shifted from their community and territory.
The villagers complain that it hurts their sentiments as the house is located in the middle of the community where people worship cows. One of the villagers said; “there are two Hindu temples and one Buddhist temple in our Gewog.” Another said that although land belonged to the owner himself, stray dogs scatter discarded parts and waste in the village. “It defiles our community and we fall ill.”
The 60-year-old owner, Penjor, said he has been running the business for the last seven years. “People accuse me of my slaughterhouse being located in the middle of the community and temples but it’s not true,” he said, adding that the present sight was approved after a thorough investigation from the past and present Ministers of Ministry of Agriculture and forests and from the Livestock department. “Even experts from within and outer countries came and gave positive feedback.”
The slaughterhouse was approved by Dzongkhag Tshogdue in consultation with the people. However, the Dzongda, Ngawang Pem, said the issue would be discussed in the next Dzongkhag Tshogdue.
“We have asked the gewog administration in writing on why the slaughterhouse was approved by the gewog some seven years back and why say no now. The owner of the slaughterhouse is willing to shift if he is compensated but matter should be decided in Dzongkhag Tshogdue as it was once approved by the same Tshogdue,” said the Dzongda.
