The proposed cow sanctuary at Jogipur in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh has remained stalled for nearly two years despite government approval and the sanction of ₹1.29 crore. According to the report, the project was initiated in August 2024, but substantial construction work is yet to begin. So far, only a cheque for fencing work has reportedly been issued, raising questions over the implementation of the sanctioned project.
The sanctuary was proposed in Jogipur village of Kota block over nearly 50 acres of government land. The plan was aimed at providing shelter to stray and abandoned cattle. In the initial phase, the administration sanctioned ₹71.43 lakh for the project. The proposal included fencing the site, developing cattle sheds and providing basic facilities for animals.
The project also faced legal scrutiny. The report states that the High Court intervened in the matter, following which directions were issued to speed up the construction process. On June 2, 2026, the joint director of the Veterinary Services Department reportedly issued instructions for starting construction and sought an action plan from the concerned authorities. Despite these directions, progress remained limited.
The administration subsequently approved additional funds. Out of the sanctioned ₹71.43 lakh, around ₹12.28 lakh was earmarked for fencing, ₹37.20 lakh for a cattle shed and ₹9.30 lakh for a borewell. Another ₹12.65 lakh was reportedly allocated for drinking-water arrangements and other requirements. The report says that work worth about ₹59.15 lakh remains pending.
The matter has also raised questions regarding compliance with administrative directions and the utilisation of public funds. The reported delay comes despite repeated instructions from officials and proceedings before the High Court. The latest developments indicate that the fencing process has moved forward, but major components of the sanctuary project are still awaiting execution.
The project’s prolonged delay has become significant from both an administrative and legal accountability perspective, particularly because public money has already been sanctioned and judicial intervention has reportedly taken place. The authorities are now expected to expedite the remaining construction and ensure that the intended facilities for stray and abandoned cattle are completed.
