The project’s integrity began to unravel when control was reportedly ceded to an 11-member ‘society’ led by Sootea MLA Padma Hazarika, which also included other prominent figures from the ruling BJP. While initial cow procurements appeared legitimate, it was the third phase, involving the acquisition of 300 Gir cows from the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), that became the focal point of the controversy, raising serious questions about transparency and oversight in livestock procurement.

Official claims initially stated that all 300 cows were returned to NDDB and that the associated funds remained unspent. However, records contradict these assertions, revealing that 210 cows had indeed reached the project site and payments were made to NDDB. Of these, a shocking 154 cows were reportedly returned due to poor quality, and a further 56 tragically died, highlighting critical flaws in the procurement and management of dairy cattle.

The scandal deepened with the controversial distribution of the remaining 90 cows. These animals were not publicly advertised or allocated to the intended indigenous farmers through clear selection criteria. Instead, they were allegedly distributed to “public representatives” and individuals closely associated with MLA Hazarika, including a private firm owned by a minister’s wife. This opaque process, coupled with inconsistencies in payment methods and even offered discounts, fueled accusations of favoritism and corruption in dairy scheme implementation.