A disturbing case of animal cruelty has surfaced in Sikkim after a buffalo was discovered in a severely injured and weakened state at a slaughterhouse in Majitar, Pakyong district. The incident has not only raised questions about the handling of animals inside the facility but also exposed serious lapses in the monitoring system that is meant to prevent such suffering. The matter was brought to public attention by Ramu Bishwakarma, a member of the animal welfare group People For Animals. After visiting the slaughterhouse, Bishwakarma described the animal’s state as “extremely poor and heartbreaking.” He reported that the buffalo was unable to walk properly, with one leg badly injured and swelling visible across its body.
“A buffalo was left in a condition where its health kept deteriorating. Its entire body showed signs of pain and injury. It is shocking that neither the authorities nor the checkposts along the transport route noticed its suffering,” Bishwakarma said. Veterinary staff were called in to examine the animal, and the inspection revealed multiple wounds and serious damage to its legs. Treatment was immediately started, but officials admitted that the unhygienic surroundings of the enclosure made it difficult to provide proper care. According to reports, despite being weak and injured, the buffalo attempted to stand, a sign of its struggle to survive.The episode has sparked debate over the implementation of the Sikkim Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act, 2017, a law that strictly regulates slaughter practices and stresses humane treatment of animals. The Act makes it mandatory for slaughterhouses to have proper authorisation and documentation. Any violation is punishable with imprisonment and fines.
Animal rights activists argue that the law exists only on paper unless enforcement is tightened. They say that frequent inspections of slaughterhouses and stronger monitoring of animal transport routes are urgently needed. Bishwakarma said that responsibility lies not just with the authorities but also with those involved in transporting and handling livestock. “People who deal with animals must understand that turning a blind eye to suffering is both illegal and immoral. Compassion and accountability should go hand in hand,” he said.