 "Raghubar Das, Jharkhand, CM")
Amid the raging controversy over cow vigilantism, Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das on saturday said those who consider India as their country should treat cow as their mother.
Das, however, stressed that there should be no violence in the garb of cow vigilantism and said cattle smugglers may be involved in the recent events of violence over cow protection.
"The entire Sangh Parivar is on the same page on the issue of cow protection. Those who consider India as their country will treat cow as their mother," Das told PTI during an interview.
On whether there were differences in the Sangh Parivar over the issue of cow slaughter and cow census, Das said, "The Sangh Parivar is united on this matter. Cow is our mother. Those who are living in India and are Indians, those who consider India as their country, for them cow is their mother."
Das' comments come in the backdrop of a controversy over cow vigilantism and attacks on Dalits over the issue.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 6 had hit out at cow vigilantes, saying he felt enraged at such "anti-social elements" who indulged in crimes by the night and masqueraded as cow protectors by day.
Modi's comment had drawn sharp reactions from VHP international working president Pravin Togadia, who said by dubbing them as "anti-socials" the PM had insulted them.
"What our Prime Minister has said on this issue is right. You may believe in any religion, any caste, but cow is our mother and we should protect cows. But, in the name of cow vigilance if someone is using violence, then that will not be tolerated.
"I personally feel those who are involved in cattle smuggling and export are involved in these crimes. This angle should be probed," Das said.
