LONDON, ENGLAND, May 18, 2007:
The National Assembly of Wales has deferred its original decision to slaughter Shambo, the sacred bull at Skanda Vale Temple. Officials of the Welsh Assembly agreed on a temporary reprieve while they examine appeals for him to live. The authorities were earlier planning to slaughter Shambo next week on Monday but they have now decided to delay this action. A Welsh Assembly spokeswoman confirmed that next week’s killing would not be carried out, though the slaughter notice remained in force. The Hindu community has expressed relief but has renewed its appeal to the authorities for removing the slaughter order completely. Shambo had tested positive for bovine TB. Monks at the temple say the test is not conclusive. The Assembly spokeswoman said, “Welsh Assembly policy is that cattle which have tested positive for TB should be slaughtered to protect public and animal health.” The authorities have said that they are still carefully considering what they concede to be a sensitive and unusual case.
Responding to the decision by the Wales Assembly, Swami Suryananda of Skanda Vale Temple said, “We are encouraged by the response of the authorities to defer their decision on the future of Shambo. To consider killing as a solution is not an option.” The Swami added, “We hope the threat of slaughter could be removed so that we can establish constructive dialogue with the Assembly to find a practical solution. We want a solution upholding the highest values of the Hindu faith along with meeting the health and safety requirements.”