Karnataka High Court Directs State To Prevent Illegal Slaughtering Of Animals, Says Officers Concerned Shall Be Held Responsible

A division bench of Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi and Justice Sachin Shankar Magadum while disposing of the petition filed by Gau Gyan Foundation said, "The answering respondents are directed to ensure no such illegal slaughtering animals is carried out in any district of the state and immediate remedial measures shall be taken to ensure that no such illegal activities take place."

It added,

"The concerned officers shall be held responsible in case such illegal slaughtering of animals is found by the authorities. Stringent action shall be taken including criminal action, against persons involved in illegal slaughtering of animals."

The petitioner had pointed out that various criminal cases have been lodged in different districts against one Abdul Haq (respondent 12), a resident of district Hassan, for running several illegal slaughter houses at Channarayapattana Town and other areas, and supplying illegal beef to large cities like Bangalore, Ramanagara, Hassan etc.

The government advocate informed the court that appropriate action is being taken as and when any such incidents of illegal slaughtering comes to the knowledge of the authorities.

It was submitted that the representation of the petitioner has also been considered and illegal slaughtering at Channarayapattana Town has been closed and criminal proceedings have been initiated against respondent 12.

The CEO of Municipal Council Channarayapattana Town, also informed that it has taken all steps to ensure that no illegal slaughtering houses are run and constant vigil is made to ensure no such illegal activities are carried out.

Following which the court said,

"All such criminal cases which have been lodged against respondent 12, shall be investigated and shall be completed and police report shall be submitted before competent court without further delay. Accordingly, we dispose of."

Case Title: Gau Gyan Foundation v. Union Of India

Case No: WP 3746/2020