A planned cow protection rally in Shillong, set for October 2, has sparked widespread opposition, with local groups pushing back against what they perceive as cultural imposition. The rally, titled “Gau Dhwaj,” aims to declare the cow as the “Mother of the Nation” through a flag-raising ceremony led by Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarandah.
Organisers describe the event as part of a nationwide campaign to elevate the cow’s status and seek constitutional changes for its protection, citing its spiritual importance in Hinduism. However, the initiative has faced strong criticism from local groups, including the Thma U Rangli Juki (TUR).
TUR leader Angela Rangad condemned the rally, calling it a “Hindu majoritarian communal attack” on Meghalaya’s secular and pluralistic culture. Rangad highlighted that beef consumption is integral to many local communities, including for religious purposes.
The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) also protested a press conference planned by the rally organisers on September 12, leading to its cancellation. Organisers cited the lack of written permission as the reason for the cancellation, but confirmed that Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarandah will arrive in Shillong on October 1, with the main event scheduled for the following day.
