Representative image

CHANDIGARH: The Manohar Lal Khattar-led BJP government in Haryana , which had set the target of making the state free off stray cattle by August 15, is now asking government employees at various district headquarters to "make voluntary donations " for Nandishalas (bull-sheds).

The deputy commissioners have held special meetings with all district-level head of departments (HoDs), asking them for "voluntary collection" from their offices for Nandishalas.

Some districts have even issued letters providing specific bank accounts in which the money collected from employees has to be deposited. Others have suggested deduction of "voluntary contribution" from employees' salaries.

In a June 6 letter, accessed by TOI, the additional deputy commissioner (ADC) Hisar, A S Maan, had asked the heads of Hisar district offices to provide a complete record of those "who have contributed and those who have not".

When contacted, the ADC disconnected the phone, saying he had only asked for "voluntary contribution".

In Bhiwani district, the employees of education department had raised slogans against the "collection" and refused to pay. Sandeep Sangwan, state president, Haryana Education Ministerial Staff Association, said though the contribution is voluntary, the employees cannot afford to ignore the official commu nications of DCs.

