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Synopsis

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) is filed through Advocate Asim Sarode and Advocate Ajinkya Rane before the Bombay High Court, to direct the Animal Husbandry Department, and the State Government, to take measures with respect to deaths of cows that occurred due to Lumpy Skin Disease in the State of Maharashtra.

The petition states that as per the 20th Livestock Census done in 2019, the population of livestock in Maharashtra is 3,30,00,000. The petition states that as per the news reports, a total of 43 infected cattle have died due to Lumpy Skin Disease in different districts of Maharashtra, according to the Maharashtra Animal Husbandry Department.

Further, there are about 280 cattle that are affected due to lumpy disease in different districts of Maharashtra. It also states that as per the report of the Central Government, 67000 animals have perished due to lumpy virus

The petitioner has prayed before the court to direct the respondent to take measures in 'controlled areas declared as per the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009. Further, it also seeks necessary direction against the respondents to follow the manual of the United Nations, SOP for the disease, and vaccination drive throughout the state.

The PIL also states that respondents should include certificate holders and diploma holders, BVSc, and veterinary practitioners to fight the disease and that 1.5 lakh should be given in case of the death of cow and buffalo.

Case Title: Devappa Anna Shetti vs. Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries & Ors.