New Delhi, September 27, 2023 – BJP MP and renowned animal rights activist, Maneka Gandhi, has accused the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) of selling cows from their gaushalas (cowsheds) to butchers, labeling them as the “biggest cheat” in the country. The religious organization, prominent for its Krishna sect, vehemently refutes these allegations, deeming them as “unsubstantiated and false.”
Ms. Gandhi’s Criticism:
- Ms. Gandhi visited ISKCON’s Anantpur Gaushala in Andhra Pradesh, claiming she found no cow that didn’t give milk or calves, suggesting that all cows were sold.
- She alleged that ISKCON profits from government benefits, including extensive land holdings, while engaging in such practices.
ISKCON’s Defense:
- Yudhistir Govinda Das, ISKCON’s national spokesperson, emphasized the organization’s commitment to cow and bull protection globally, asserting that the animals are cared for throughout their lives, not sold to butchers.
Response to the unsubstantiated and false statements of Smt Maneka Gandhi.
— Yudhistir Govinda Das (@yudhistirGD) September 26, 2023
ISKCON has been at the forefront of cow and bull protection and care not just in India but globally.
The cows and bulls are served for their life not sold to butchers as alleged. pic.twitter.com/GRLAe5B2n6
Global Cow Protection Efforts:
- ISKCON, associated with the Hare Krishna movement and boasting millions of devotees worldwide, has been at the forefront of cow protection in regions where beef is a staple diet.
Reputation and Recent Controversy:
- The religious body came under scrutiny earlier when one of its monks criticized Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna Paramahansa. The monk, Amogh Lila Das, was swiftly “banned” by ISKCON and sent for atonement following the ensuing controversy.
In response to Ms. Gandhi’s statements, ISKCON released a statement expressing surprise and noting her status as a respected animal rights activist and well-wisher of the organization.
News Summary:
- Maneka Gandhi accuses ISKCON of selling cows to butchers, labeling them as the “biggest cheat” in the country.
- ISKCON, a global Krishna sect, rebuts allegations, asserting its dedication to cow and bull protection.
- Yudhistir Govinda Das, ISKCON’s spokesperson, affirms that the cows and bulls are cared for throughout their lives, not sold for slaughter.
- ISKCON has a significant presence with hundreds of temples and millions of devotees worldwide.
- Earlier this year, ISKCON faced controversy when a monk criticized prominent spiritual figures, leading to his banishment and a subsequent period of atonement.
