Jodhpur: In a decisive move to address the growing concern over stray animals on city streets and highways, the Rajasthan High Court Monday issued interim directions aimed at tackling the issue head-on. The high court’s directive to all municipal bodies came in light of increasing incidents of attacks and fatalities involving stray dogs and cattle across Rajasthan. A division bench comprising Justices Kuldeep Mathur and Ravi Chirania mandated that municipal bodies throughout Rajasthan initiate a special drive to remove stray dogs, cattle and other animals from public areas, ensuring that minimal harm comes to the animals during the process. The high court empowered municipal officials and employees to take necessary actions against individuals obstructing their efforts to remove stray animals. This includes the authority to file FIRs against those impeding public servants while they perform their duties. The high court sought a detailed report on the condition and maintenance of dog shelters and Gaushalas (cattle shelters) managed by all municipal bodies by the next hearing date on Sept 8. In addition to these measures, the court instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the State Highways Authority to regularly patrol highways, ensuring they remain clear of stray animals to facilitate smooth vehicular movement. Municipal bodies were directed to publicise contact information for citizens to report stray animal sightings efficiently.
Raj HC orders action against stray animals | Jaipur News
