Target: Hon. Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy, Advisor to the Government of Andhra Pradesh
Goal: Implement stringent measures to prevent illegal slaughter and protect animal welfare in Andhra Pradesh.
In a significant case before the Andhra Pradesh High Court, the judicial bench tackled pressing issues regarding illegal staking and slaughtering of cattle in the Vijayawada region. The case, Vinod Kumar Rajpurohith v. State of Andhra Pradesh & Ors. (WP No: 12308/2024), featured a plea emphasizing the failure of authorities to manage and regulate public slaughtering of cattle. The petitioner, represented by Adv. Gangisetti Uma Sankar, sought the court’s intervention to ensure public places are safeguarded from such illegal practices. Respondents, including municipal authorities represented by Adv. M. Manohar Reddy, SC For Municipalities, were tasked with enforcing animal cruelty laws and certifying slaughterhouses.
The petitioner, Vinod Kumar Rajpurohith, argued that there was a notable increase in illegal staking and slaughtering of cattle in public spaces, posing threats to public peace and harmony. Despite earlier representations, authorities allegedly failed to address these concerns effectively. The petitioner requested judicial intervention to enforce legal provisions under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1977, and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Slaughter House) Rules, 2001.
Conversely, the respondents asserted that they had adhered to guidelines set by the Animal Welfare Board, including checkpoints and awareness campaigns to combat illegal practices. Take appropriate steps within the legal framework to ensure humane treatment of animals.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Hon. Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy,
I am writing to express my grave concern regarding the recent findings in the case of Vinod Kumar Rajpurohith v. State of Andhra Pradesh & Ors. (WP No: 12308/2024), which highlighted severe lapses in managing and regulating public slaughtering of cattle in the Vijayawada region. Despite efforts, illegal staking and slaughtering of cattle in public spaces continue, causing public distress and violating animal cruelty laws.
The court emphasized the crucial role of Nodal Officers, appointed across the state, in ensuring compliance with regulations concerning animal cruelty and slaughtering. These officers are responsible for verifying that slaughterhouses operate with necessary certifications and adhere to legal standards. However, the persistence of these illegal activities indicates a need for stricter enforcement and accountability.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1977, and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Slaughter House) Rules, 2001, provide a legal framework for protecting animals. Yet, the implementation of these laws requires rigorous monitoring and enforcement. The court’s judgment underscores the importance of transparency and continued efforts to combat illegal practices.
We urge you to take immediate and stringent action to prevent further illegal cattle slaughter and ensure the humane treatment of animals. Strengthening enforcement measures, enhancing public awareness, and ensuring accountability of the responsible authorities are essential steps in addressing this critical issue.
Your commitment to animal welfare and public safety is crucial in preventing such incidents and upholding the law. We request you to implement comprehensive measures to protect the welfare of animals and ensure strict adherence to animal cruelty laws in Andhra Pradesh.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Simeon Joshua
