Punjab & Haryana HC Seeks Centre, State's Response On Plea To Declare Feeding Spots, Form Welfare Board For Stray Animals At RWA Level

The Punjab & Haryana High Court has sought a response from the Union and State Government on a plea seeking directions to declare the necessary feeding spots in the residential areas for stray animals and to constitute Animal Welfare Boards at the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) level in Haryana.

Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj issued notice to the Union Government, Animal Welfare Board of India, Haryana Government, Municipal Corporation, Police Commissioner, RWA, Faridabad.

Nitu Kumari and Sonia Singh residents of Faridabad moved the High Court alleging that the local RWA is raising objection on feeding stray animals in the vicinity.

It is submitted that they have been "deprived from their fundamental right to feeding the dogs and taking their care and in clear violation of the existent laws and precedents."

Reliance is placed upon the Delhi High Court's decision in Dr.Maya D. Chablani v.Radha Mittal & Ors, wherein the Court directed that all law enforcement authorities, RWA to ensure that no harassment or hindrance is caused to the person feeding the street dogs at the designated feeding spot and asked State to properly implement the AWBI Revised Guidelines on Pet dogs and street dogs dated 26th February 2015.

The plea seeks directions from the respondents to allow the petitioners to feed and take care of the animals especially dogs and cats in the locality.

A prayer is also made to direct RWA members and Police to restrain them from harassing the petitioners for feeding stray animals.

The matter is deferred to May 27, for further consideration.

Nirbhay Kumar, Advocate for the petitioners.

Promila Nain, Senior Panel Counsel for respondents No.1 & 2-Union of India.

Title: NITU KUMARI AND ANOTHER v. UNION OF INDIA AND OTHERS

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