Barnao Cow Shelter Row: Laborer Accuses Pradhan's Husband of Withholding Wages
A laborer has approached police alleging that the husband of the Barnao cow shelter chief withheld 9,000 rupees in wages.
The Barnao Brihad Goshala, a cow shelter located in the Patara block of Kanpur, has been thrust back into the spotlight following a fresh controversy. While local officials recently claimed that the facility was operating smoothly, a new allegation of financial exploitation has emerged, involving a laborer and the family of the village head.
The Allegation of Unpaid Wages
Kamalavati, a resident of Barnao and wife of Radhelal, has formally approached the Patara police outpost with a grievance. According to her complaint, she was hired by Suresh Singh Senger—the husband of the village Pradhan (head)—to work at the cow shelter. Her duties involved the essential care of the animals, specifically ensuring they were provided with adequate fodder and water.
Kamalavati claims that she was promised a monthly wage of 9,000 rupees for her services. Although she completed one full month of work, she alleges that this payment has never been released to her. Despite several months passing since the completion of her duties, the money remains unpaid.
Failed Attempts at Resolution
The complainant stated that she did not immediately turn to the police. Instead, she made multiple attempts to resolve the matter internally. She claims to have approached both the village head and other local officials to request her arrears, but her pleas were reportedly ignored, leaving her with no choice but to seek legal intervention.
Contradicting Claims and Official Stance
This incident comes at a sensitive time for the facility. Previously, a viral video had raised questions about the shelter's condition, prompting BDO Shiv Naresh Rajput and Veterinary Officer Dr. Mahendra Kumar to assert that all arrangements at the Goshala were in order.
Regarding the current wage dispute, the side representing the village head has strongly denied the allegations. They have dismissed Kamalavati's claims as baseless and maintain that the shelter's operations are functioning correctly.
Police Investigation Underway
The Patara police outpost has officially accepted the complaint and launched an investigation into the matter. Authorities have indicated that they will call upon both parties to facilitate a resolution and determine the truth behind the withheld wages.
The ongoing dispute has sparked further concern among the local villagers, who are now questioning the overall management of the cow shelter and the actual quality of care being provided to the animals.