Court emphasizes compliance with existing bylaws, directs authorities to ensure licensing adherence.
In a significant ruling, the Rajasthan High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking stringent regulation of meat shops and slaughterhouses in Jodhpur. The PIL, filed by Aasif Ali, aimed at enforcing stricter compliance with municipal bylaws and revising existing regulations concerning the establishment and operation of meat shops in the city.
The Division Bench, comprising Dr. Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Praveer Bhatnagar, heard the case and issued its verdict on July 10, 2026. The petitioner sought a detailed survey of meat and chicken shops, closure of unlicensed establishments, revision of bylaws, and restrictions on unlawful slaughtering. The petitioner also demanded that shops near religious and educational institutions be closed and that slaughtering be permitted only in authorized slaughterhouses.
Representing the petitioner, Mr. Moti Singh argued for enhanced regulatory measures, citing public sentiment and hygiene concerns. The respondents, represented by Mr. Deepak Chandak and others, submitted that the meat trade in Jodhpur is regulated under the Municipal Council Bylaws of 1991, amended in 2012. They provided an affidavit indicating that there are 351 licensed meat shops in Jodhpur, with 267 licenses renewed and the rest under process.
The court, after considering the submissions and affidavit, concluded that the existing regulatory framework sufficiently addresses the petitioner's concerns. The Bench decided against delving into minute aspects of regulatory supervision, noting that the authorities must ensure compliance with licensing requirements and statutory provisions.
The court emphasized that any unlicensed operation should be addressed by apprising the individuals of licensing requirements, and applications should be processed per law. The operation of meat shops should adhere to applicable bylaws and rules.
The dismissal of the PIL underscores the court's stance on maintaining regulatory compliance while avoiding unnecessary judicial intervention. The ruling mandates that the authorities continue their supervisory role, ensuring that meat shops operate within the legal framework.
Pending applications related to the PIL were also disposed of, marking the conclusion of the proceedings.
Bottom line:-
Regulation of meat shops and slaughterhouses in Jodhpur - Ensuring compliance with municipal bylaws - Licensing framework for meat shops and enforcement of statutory provisions.
Statutory provision(s): Article 226 of the Constitution of India, Municipal Council, Jodhpur (Maas Vikray, Sthan Nirikshan) Bylaws, 1991, Jodhpur Nagar Nigam (Maas Vikray, Sthan Nirikshan Amendment) Bylaws, 2012.
Aasif Ali v. Municipal Corporation (North), Jodhpur, (Rajasthan)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2948855
