Initiating Citywide Animal Removal Campaign on Metro Pathways, Instituted by Rajasthan High Court
The Rajasthan High Court has taken a decisive step to ensure public safety and promote animal welfare by ordering municipal bodies in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur to remove stray dogs and other animals from city roads and public places[1][2][4]. The order, issued suo motu, was a response to the rising incidents of stray animal-related accidents and dog bites causing deaths and public safety concerns[1][3][4].
A Bench of Justices Kuldeep Mathur and Ravi Chirania presided over the order. Advocates BP Bohra and Vaibhav Bhansali represented the Central government, while Senior Advocate Sachin Acharya, Advocates Priyanka Borana, and Heli Pathak served as Amicus Curiae in the case[2]. Additional Advocate General Rajesh Panwar with Advocate Monal Chugh represented the State and municipalities[2].
The order mandates a humane yet firm approach to clearing stray animals from public roads. Municipal authorities have been tasked with framing strategies such as creating shelters for stray animals, improving existing gaushalas (cow shelters) and dog shelters, and establishing mechanisms to receive public complaints about stray animals[2][3][4].
Stray animals found on roads and highways are to be removed by municipal corporations and highway authorities, aiming for safe relocation without harm to the animals[3][4]. The National and State Highways Authorities have been directed to conduct regular patrolling to clear stray animals ensuring free vehicular movement[4].
For animals like cattle, processes are to be instituted to return them to their rightful owners if possible[2]. The court has empowered municipal officials to take action against anyone obstructing the removal drive. This includes lodging First Information Reports (FIRs) under relevant municipal laws against persons impeding the officials or employees from performing their duties[1][2][4][5].
The High Court underscored strict law enforcement to maintain public order and safety by penalizing those interfering with the removal efforts[2]. The court also emphasized that minimum harm should be caused to the animals during their removal and relocation efforts[1][2][4].
Detailed reports on the condition and maintenance of animal shelters are to be submitted by the municipal bodies before the next hearing scheduled for September 8, 2025[2][3]. The court’s emphasis on transparent and effective mechanisms implies a role for public complaints and participation to monitor the implementation and animal welfare aspects[3][4].
People who wish to feed or take care of the animals can do so at shelters maintained by municipalities or private individuals or organizations. Multiple fatalities due to stray animals have occurred across the State, prompting the urgent need for action[1][3][4].
The order comes as a relief for citizens who have been dealing with the growing threat posed by stray animals on public roads and highways. The Rajasthan High Court's proactive approach to addressing this issue is a step towards ensuring a safer and more animal-friendly environment for all.
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rajasthan/rajasthan-high-court-orders-municipal-bodies-to-remove-stray-dogs-and-other-animals-from-city-roads-and-public-places/article66443693.ece [2] https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/rajasthan-hc-orders-municipal-bodies-to-remove-stray-dogs-and-other-animals-from-city-roads-and-public-places [3] https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/rajasthan-high-court-orders-municipal-bodies-to-remove-stray-dogs-from-city-roads-1871745-2023-04-28 [4] https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/rajasthan-high-court-orders-municipal-bodies-to-remove-stray-dogs-and-other-animals-from-city-roads-and-public-places/405064 [5] https://www.thequint.com/news/india/rajasthan-high-court-orders-municipal-bodies-to-remove-stray-dogs-and-other-animals-from-city-roads-and-public-places
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