[Lumpy Skin Disease PIL] Bombay HC Asks State Government To Come Up With A Policy

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Synopsis

The Division Bench, on Wednesday, asked the State Government to frame a policy on measures to prevent lumpy skin disease in cows that leads to death. The PIL has also claimed a compensation of Rs. 1.5 Lakh in case of death of each cow and buffalo.

A Division Bench of Justice S.V Gangapurwala and Justice R.N Laddha of the Bombay High Court, on Wednesday, directed the state government to come up with a policy, in a Public Interest Litigation, that sought directions to 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 Bench today asked the Additional Solicitor General, to take instructions and come up with a policy to take measures for the deaths of cows due to Lumpy Skin. The court in its order noted that PIL has been filed seeking vaccination for cows and pure drinking water for cattle. 

The Bench issued notice to the respondents and adjourned the hearing to November 17. 

The PIL has prayed before the court to direct the respondents 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.