Cow injured after swallowing explosive-laced food in Kangra

An eight-month pregnant cow suffered severe facial injuries after swallowing explosive-laced food while grazing in a pasture at Barial village in the Jawali Assembly constituency of Kangra district. The explosion destroyed the cow’s jaw. After receiving first aid at a local veterinary dispensary, the injured animal was shifted to the Veterinary Medical Institute at Agriculture University, Palampur, where it is battling for life.

The cow’s owner, Pankaj Jaswal, said he was informed by locals about the injury. On rushing to the spot, he found the cow grievously wounded and immediately arranged medical help. He has demanded strict action against those responsible for laying such dangerous traps.

This is not an isolated incident. Last week, a stray cow in the Fatehpur assembly constituency also sustained serious injuries after consuming explosive-laced wheat dough left by unidentified poachers. Such cruel methods, allegedly used to kill wild animals, are putting stray and domestic animals at risk.

Hunting is banned in Himachal Pradesh, yet poachers continue to flout the law with impunity. Animal rights activists have voiced strong concern over the growing use of explosives in the lower Kangra region and questioned how such materials are accessible despite government restrictions.

They have urged wildlife authorities and other concerned departments to take stringent measures against this increasing menace. Activists warn that these illegal practices not only harm animals but also pose serious threats to public safety and wildlife conservation in the region.

Himachal Tribune