AGRA, April 8 -- Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday said that public awareness will help end cow slaughter in the country as he suggested a Ram temple-style fervour for the purpose. Bhagwat said while those in power currently intend to end cow slaughter, they need to raise awareness in society. Following this, an effective ban on cow slaughter would come on its own. "To stop cow slaughter, it is necessary to make society a 'gau bhakt' (one who holds cow in high esteem)," he added. "Ram Mandir did not come up between 2014 and 2019. It came after 2019. The Supreme Court, which used to say that they have many important matters to take up other than Ram Mandir issue, gave a decision in favour of Ram temple construction when 'jan-bhavna' (wish of the masses) became strong," the RSS chief said while addressing a gathering of seers and invitees at 452nd Jayanti Mahotsav of Sant Malook Das in Vrindavan. Similarly, same feeling should be visible for the cows and once it becomes the wish of the masses, it will happen on its own. System cannot find the solution by itself. If there is a red light but not followed by masses, it is of no use but once masses agree to follow it and stop, the red light will be effective," he added. "Those in power at present wish to ban cow slaughter and I am personally aware of it, but before taking this brave step, they have to face many issues. They should discuss and raise this issue of ban on cow slaughter amongst masses' he said. "Although it is tough to keep cow in cities but many are supporting 'gaushala' (cow shelters). Such awareness towards cow protection needs to be spread and rest will be done automatically once wish of the masses is raised in society because decision makers have to bow before 'jan-bhavna'," Bhagwat added. He further said that the RSS had been making efforts for the ban on cow slaughter since 1952, adding that they had forwarded a letter signed by 2 crore Indians to the President of India. "The Sangh continues to be associated with the issue and is making every effort for a movement for mass awareness to provide status of 'mother' for cow. As it is age of science, we need to convince masses about the utility of desi cows in farming, milk production, etc.," he said. htc...