In a decisive ruling, the Supreme Court recently concluded its assessment of the Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) epidemic among cattle, expressing contentment with the preventive measures implemented by both the Central Government and individual states.
Lumpy Skin Disease, caused by the Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV), poses a significant threat to cattle populations, characterized by skin nodules and transmitted primarily by mosquitoes and biting flies. Reports indicate a substantial toll, with over 75,000 cattle succumbing to the disease since its outbreak in April 2022.
The Supreme Court’s involvement dates back to October 31, 2022, when it issued a notice to determine the existence of a National Health Plan formulated by the Union of India to combat the LSDV epidemic among cows and other cattle.
The Union of India and the Animal Welfare Board of India, in their responses, asserted that the matter falls within the jurisdiction of individual states. Both entities emphasized the issuance of guidelines and policy circulars, leading to the vaccination of approximately 8.16 crore cattle.
States including Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, and the Government of NCT of Delhi submitted counter-affidavits detailing their respective actions.
After reviewing the submissions, the Court remarked, “It is apparent from the counter-affidavits that the budgetary allocation and the consequential expenditure incurred vary from state to state… In light of these steps, we are satisfied that these proceedings can be closed as of now.” The Court emphasized the petitioner’s right to approach Central or State Governments for any future related concerns.
Furthermore, the petitioner was granted liberty to approach the Union government to seek policy decisions on issues such as sustainable programs for indigenous cows, medicinal use of cow urine, and the proper implementation of the Pashu Aadhar numerical database.
The bench, comprised of Justices Surya Kant and Dipankar Datta, heard the writ petition filed by social and animal activist Ashutosh Bansal under Article 32. The petition aimed to direct the Union and states to formulate policies addressing the Lumpy Skin Disease pandemic threatening cattle.
Concluding the proceedings, the Court expressed confidence in the proactive measures taken by the states, stating, “We have no reason to doubt that the State Governments will take prompt action and give serious consideration to the issues that may be raised by the petitioner(s) in the future.”
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