Lying in cowshed can cure cancer: UP Minister

PILIBHIT (Uttar Pradesh) — Uttar Pradesh Minister Sanjay Singh Gangwar recently made controversial remarks about the health benefits of interacting with cows. Speaking at the inauguration of the Kanha Gaushala, he claimed that cleaning a cowshed and lying in it could cure cancer. He also suggested that stroking a cow’s back could lower blood pressure.

Gangwar elaborated on his claims by saying that if someone with high blood pressure strokes a cow’s back twice daily, their medication dosage could reduce significantly within 10 days. He emphasised the usefulness of all cow products, mentioning that burning cow dung cakes can repel mosquitoes.

The minister addressed farmers’ complaints about stray cattle damaging crops. He suggested that the issue arises because people are not taking care of cows, which he referred to as “mother.” Gangwar urged people to serve cows better to prevent such problems.

He also encouraged Muslims to visit cowsheds during Eid and use cow’s milk for making vermicelli. The newly inaugurated Gaushala will provide fodder, medicine, and shelter for destitute cows, aiming to connect more people with these shelters.

Gangwar urged people to celebrate personal occasions like wedding anniversaries and children’s birthdays at Gaushalas. He encouraged them to donate fodder as part of these celebrations.

The minister has a political history that includes contesting the 2012 Assembly election on a BSP ticket, which he lost. However, he joined the BJP in 2017, won from the Pilibhit seat, and was re-elected in 2022, subsequently becoming a minister.

Gangwar is known for making headlines frequently, often due to his criticisms of former BJP MP Varun Gandhi. His recent statements have sparked discussions about traditional beliefs.