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The Karnataka High Court today directed the Karnataka state government to ensure that no illegal slaughtering of animals is carried out in any district of the state. Court said that stringent action should be taken including criminal action, against persons involved in the illegal slaughtering.

Dealing with a plea filed by Gau Gyan Foundation, a Society registered in New Delhi, working in the field of animal welfare, the Bench of Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi and Justice Sachin Shankar Magadum also stated that in case such illegal slaughtering of animals is found by the authorities, the concerned officers shall be held responsible. 

The Court has also stressed that immediate remedial measures should also be taken to ensure that no such illegal activities take place.

Further taking note of the present matter, wherein one Abdul Haq had been found running several illegal slaughterhouses across the State, the Court also ordered that all the criminal cases that had been lodged against Haq shall be investigated and upon completion of the probe a police report shall be submitted before the competent court without further delay.

Matter in brief

The petitioner Foundation, an 'Animal Welfare Organization (AWO) recognized by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) had apprised the Court that in different districts of the state, multiple cases had been lodged against one Abdul Haq, who is a resident of district Hassan, for running several illegal slaughterhouses at Channarayapattana Town and other areas. It was also alleged that Haq used to supply illegal beef to large cities like Bangalore, Ramanagara, etc.

Upon this, the government advocate appearing on behalf of the State had submitted that appropriate actions are being taken against the culprits as and when any such incident comes to the knowledge of the state authorities.

He further submitted that the petitioner Foundation's representation in the Abdul Haq matter had also been considered, and as a consequence, illegal slaughtering at Channarayapattana Town had been closed and criminal proceedings had also been initiated against Haq. 

When enquired, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Municipal Corporation of Channarayapattana Town also informed the Court that Corporation had taken all steps to ensure that no illegal slaughtering houses run in the town. He had added that to curb the illegal practice, a constant vigil is being kept.

Taking note of submission made by all the parties, the Court disposed of the present matter with the abovesaid directions. 

Cause Title: Gau Gyan Foundation vs Union of India and Ors.