Hundreds of Hindus, whose temple cow was deceitfully killed by the RSPCA held a peaceful protest today outside the RSPCA headquarters in Horsham, Sussex and simultaneous prayers were conducted at Bhaktivedanta Manor in Hertfordshire where the cow known as Gangotri was slaughtered by lethal injection. This killing came despite the RSPCA’s assurances that nothing further would happen until legalities had been explored.

“The RSPCA professes to be a compassionate organisation, but their starting point is to kill first, ours is to tend to the animal’s needs and treat it to get better.” said Vinay Tanna a spokesperson for the Temple, “Gangotri was taken care of by two herdsman 24 hours a day and was under the supervision of two Vets, both of whom did not recommend the cow be euthanased.”

“Our protest today is not directed toward DEFRA, the government department responsible for animal health,” said chief herdsman Stuart Coyle, “We were given repeated assurances by them that no further action would be taken before the religious sensitivities of the Hindu community were taken into consideration.”

He continued: “The RSPCA alone pulled the trigger on our cow. They made the decision to immediately kill when no such recommendation was given by any other agency. I believe that even the police were duped by the supposed powers of the RSPCA, when, in actuality, no such powers exist.”

The Hindus gathered outside the RSPCA headquarters this morning accompanied their prayers and peaceful protest with the traditional sound of cymbals and drums.

“In Hinduism, its traditional that mourning extends for thirteen days, and a ceremony is held at the conclusion of that period,” explained Sruti Dharma, a Hindu priest, “Boxing Day is thirteen days after she was killed.”

Another priest remarked: “The RSPCA came without warning and simply ended her life while the monks were at prayer. At least this observance will help to bring this period to a conclusion.”

“The community’s Christmas has been overshadowed by this terrible event, ” said Gauri das, head of Bhaktivedanta Manor, “It was a tragedy for thousands of our members, and especially the children”.

For more information, please contact

Mr Vinay Tanna

07780 707060 (m)