Chhattisgarh High Court Initiates Suo-Moto PIL Over Cattle Deaths in Bilaspur

Court Demands Accountability from Veterinary Department Following Reports of Negligence

In a significant move underscoring the judiciary's proactive stance on public welfare, the Chhattisgarh High Court has initiated a suo-moto public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the alarming reports of cattle deaths in Bilaspur District. The action comes in response to a news article published in the Hindi daily "Navbharat," highlighting the dire conditions leading to the continuous deaths of cattle due to mismanagement and lack of essential care in the Beltara and Sukulkari areas of the Masturi Block.

The bench, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, expressed grave concern over the reported negligence and insensitivity of the Veterinary Department. The court has directed the Principal Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Government of Chhattisgarh, to submit a personal affidavit addressing the issues raised in the report.

The news item, which triggered the court's intervention, described a tragic scenario where more than a dozen cows have perished due to inadequate management, food, water, and medical care. The report accused local officials of being oblivious to the situation, despite mounting evidence and public outcry. The court noted that the allegations, if true, reflect serious administrative lapses requiring urgent remedial measures.

During the hearing, Mr. Ajit Singh, the Government Advocate for the State, requested time to obtain further instructions. Meanwhile, the Joint Director of Veterinary Services in Bilaspur, as quoted in the article, claimed ignorance about the deaths in Beltara while denying departmental responsibility for the incidents.

The court emphasized the urgency of addressing such gross negligence, which not only undermines governmental schemes purportedly aimed at cattle protection but also assaults basic human sensibilities. The judges underscored the disconnect between governmental promises and ground realities, noting the palpable anger and frustration among villagers.

Two photographs accompanying the news article starkly depicted the deplorable conditions endured by the cattle, lending visual credence to the villagers' allegations of mismanagement.

Acknowledging the prima facie evidence of administrative failures, the court has scheduled the next hearing for October 27, 2025, by which time it expects a detailed affidavit from the Principal Secretary. This case underscores the judiciary's vital role in ensuring governmental accountability and protecting vulnerable sections of society, including animals.

Bottom Line:

Suo-moto public interest litigation initiated on the basis of a news report highlighting continuous deaths of cattle due to mismanagement, lack of food, water, and medical care in certain areas of District Bilaspur, raising serious administrative lapses and issues of negligence by the Veterinary Department.

Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation.

In the Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation based on news item published in Navbharat v. State of Chhattisgarh, (Chhattisgarh)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2797214