Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow

Lucknow, Dec 30: Mystery shrouds the death of around 170 sheep near the Rashtriya Prerna Sthal area in Uttar Pradesh’s capital Lucknow, prompting authorities to send samples for examination to determine the exact cause of death.

Police said it is yet to be ascertained whether the sheep died due to disease, poisoning, consumption of waste material or negligence. Samples have been sent for post-mortem and laboratory testing.

Taking serious note of the incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a detailed probe into the matter. The state government also announced a compensation of Rs 10,000 per sheep for the affected owners.

Charu Khare, founder of NGO Aasra – The Helping Hands Trust, submitted an application to the Madiaon police station stating that the sheep died suddenly in the area a few days after an event was held at Rashtriya Prerna Sthal.

“Prima facie, it is not clear whether the sheep consumed some waste material or were deliberately poisoned by unknown persons,” Khare said, demanding a thorough investigation.

She stressed that post-mortem examinations must be conducted to establish the exact cause behind the mysterious deaths. “If any laxity is found or poisoning is confirmed, strict action should be taken against those responsible. Our organisation will extend all possible support to the investigation,” she added.

Calling the incident “serious and sensitive”, Khare said the possibility of animal cruelty or negligence cannot be ruled out.

Madiaon Station House Officer Shivanand Mishra told PTI that samples of the dead sheep have been sent for post-mortem examination and further action will be taken based on the reports.

Authorities have assured that all angles will be probed to ensure accountability in the case.