Dehradun: Police have booked a dairy owner at Kawli road in connection with the usage of artificial growth hormone — oxytocin — in cattle.
It was on August 26 that SPCA teams visited five dairies at Lakshman chowk and Kanwali road, where they claimed to have seen owners giving oxytocin shots to dairy animals to enhance milk production.
The team then approached administration officials and police, seeking legal action against the offenders. However, despite multiple complaints, no action was taken.
“A case has finally been registered against one of the dairy owners. It will be a lesson to those involved in such practices. We had found four oxytocin vials at the spot,” said Rubina Nitin Iyer, SPCA member.”
“We were waiting for the drug inspector’s report, which has confirmed the presence of oxytocin. An FIR has been registered. These are bailable offences but due legal action will be taken,” said Ritesh Shah, station house officer, Kotwali police station.
Following the incident, the district magistrate had ordered a probe in the matter. The report suggests overcrowding, environmental lapses and drainage concerns.
“Based on the findings, we will soon take necessary action and issue notices,” said DM R Rajesh Kumar.
Replying to a volley of queries, officials claimed that the drug is often procured on the black market as it is banned for animal use. A senior veterinarian also said that the drug doesn’t enhance milk production but instead squeezes the mammary glands giving the impression of higher production.
Meanwhile, SPCA teams have requested authorities to issue guidelines to dairy owners to stay away from such practices.
