Mumbai: Taking strong exception to the inhumane transportation of animals and livestock in Mumbai, the Bombay High Court has directed the Transport Department to detail the measures it is taking to curb such cruelty. A senior officer from the transport department has been ordered to file an affidavit within four weeks, personally vetted by the Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary of the department.
A division bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by the NGO Viniyog Parivar Trust, which sought the implementation of Rule 125E of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) 2015 and 2016. This rule outlines specific requirements for vehicles transporting livestock to ensure humane treatment.
The NGO’s advocate, Siddh Vidya, submitted that authorities were failing to enforce the rules, leading to livestock being transported in cruel conditions. Apart from the CMVR, she highlighted the provisions under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Transport of Animals on Foot) Rules and the Transport of Animals Rules governing the transport of animals. Vidya also referred to a high court order from August 6, 2019, which emphasized continuous vigilance and stringent action to prevent violations of the law.
The advocate presented photographs showing the cruel treatment of livestock during transportation. Taking these on record, the court asked the state’s advocate whether the rules were being implemented.
“Have you seen a single vehicle transporting livestock in conformity with the law?” the Chief Justice asked. Criticizing the authorities, the bench remarked: “What action are you taking? Why are you framing these laws? To be printed by a publisher and kept in the library of lawyers and judges?”
The court also noted that similar orders had been issued in the past but questioned their enforcement. “What are you doing? It’s a common sight on the road,” the Chief Justice observed, expressing disappointment over the lack of priority given to animal welfare.
The bench directed the Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary to assign a senior officer to prepare the affidavit, outlining steps taken to address the issue. The affidavit must be submitted by January 29, 2025, when the matter will be heard next.
