In a rare occurrence, residents of Bangalore may soon be shocked to witness herds of sheep with their shepherds converging at Freedom Park this coming Tuesday. The sight of the soaring group of shepherds might raise concerns among locals, who are generally accustomed to the morning peace that surrounds Freedom Park in the morning.
The congregation will advance towards the Vidhana Soudha in a protest demanding the immediate implementation of the long-promised Shepherds Protection and Prevention of Atrocities Bill, as reported by The Indian Express.
Upon the possibility of a one off scenario, Yellapa Hegde, a community leader, said, “This is not just a protest – this is a movement for survival. The allegations we have raised are about safeguarding the identity, livelihood, and dignity of India’s largest OBC community, the shepherds, who constitute nearly 8% of Karnataka’s population.”
The protest will include members from other communities such as SC, ST, Muslims, and a few others involved in sheep rearing. Protestors have been continually voicing concerns over the delay in passing protective legislation once promised by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. “The community wants the leader to fulfill his promise. We are here during the Assembly session to ensure that the commitment is not forgotten,” Hegde added.
Sri Thinthini Mutt Pontiff highlighted the vulnerability of the shepherds over generations. He said, “For generations, shepherds have been victims of crime and harassment as they travel in search of fodder. Without strong laws, they are easy prey for criminals. We demand immediate legal safeguards,” as per the Media Report.
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