GAU GYAN FOUNDATION Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Though the primary interest of the petitioner in this public interest litigation appears to be the well-being of cattle and how they are brought to animal markets, it is the larger issue that needs to be addressed: pertaining to the treatment of all animals, including those that may be bred only for the purpose of human consumption.

(2.) Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and the rules and notifications made thereunder, there is a minimum degree of dignity and comfort which has to be afforded even to animals that are culled. In particular, the petitioner refers to a notification of May 23, 2017 by which the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Regulation of Livestock Markets) Rules, 2017 have been framed. To the extent the operation of some of the rules remain unimpeded, they must be implemented.

(3.) The said Rules of 2017 require the constitution of the district animal market monitoring committees, the constitution of animal market committees, the registration of existing animal markets, the procedure for establishment of new animal markets and the functions of the district animal marketing market monitoring committees. Such functions include the obligation to ensure certain minimum requirements in animal markets. These minimum requirements cover aspects such as housing, shade, feeding troughs, water tanks, lighting, ramps, veterinary facilities, toilets, provision for disposal of dead animals, provision for ensuring hygiene and removal of manure and bio-waste and separate enclosures for different animals, to indicate a few.