Wed Feb 05 14:30:17 UTC 2025: ## Minister’s “Shoot-on-Sight” Order Condemned

**Mysuru, Karnataka – February 5, 2025** – The People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) Mysuru chapter has vehemently condemned Fisheries Minister Mankala Vaidya’s directive to Uttara Kannada district authorities to shoot cattle thieves on sight. The PUCL termed the statement “irresponsible” and “inciting,” demanding Minister Vaidya’s immediate dismissal from the Siddaramaiah cabinet.

In a press statement, PUCL president Kamal Gopinath and general secretary V. Purushottam urged the district administration to disregard the minister’s order, emphasizing adherence to the rule of law. They further cautioned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah against retaining ministers who promote “soft Hindutva,” accusing them of undermining the state’s secular fabric and disregarding human life. The PUCL cited the violence and deaths resulting from cow protection vigilantism in other states as evidence of the dangers of such rhetoric. The organization appealed to the Chief Minister to prevent further violence and divisiveness by removing Vaidya from his ministerial position.

Read More