The recent closure of a petition by the Supreme Court regarding the Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) epidemic among cattle signifies the approval of measures taken by the Union and states to prevent and manage the outbreak. LSD, caused by the Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV), affects cattle, leading to skin nodules and transmission through mosquitoes and biting flies. In April 2022, media reports indicated a significant impact, with over 75,000 cattle succumbing to the disease.
On October 31, 2022, the Supreme Court had issued notice to determine if the Union of India had formulated a National Health Plan to address the LSDV epidemic among cows and cattle. In response, both the Union of India and the Animal Welfare Board of India asserted that the matter fell within the states' jurisdiction. They highlighted guidelines and policy circulars, resulting in the vaccination of around 8.16 crore cattle. States like Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, and the Government of NCT of Delhi detailed the steps they had taken in their respective counter-affidavits.
Upon reviewing the affidavits, the Court acknowledged the variation in budgetary allocations and expenditures among states, influenced by cattle populations and financial conditions. However, it expressed satisfaction with the measures implemented by all states. The Court decided to close the proceedings, with the option for petitioners to approach the Central/State Governments for future issues. Moreover, the petitioner was granted the liberty to approach the Union government to make policy decisions on issues such as sustainable programs for indigenous cows, the medicinal use of cow urine, and the proper implementation of the Pashu Aadhar numerical database.
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and Dipankar Datta, heard a writ petition by Ashutosh Bansal, a social and animal activist, filed under Article 32. The petition sought directives for the Union and states to formulate policies addressing the Lumpy Skin Disease pandemic affecting cows.
In essence, the Supreme Court's decision reflects confidence in the measures taken by the Union and states to combat the LSD epidemic. The acknowledgment of varying budgetary allocations emphasizes the decentralized approach, allowing states to tailor strategies based on cattle populations and financial capabilities. The closure of proceedings signals a belief in the effectiveness of current measures, with the provision for future petitions to address emerging issues.
The grant of liberty to the petitioner underscores the Court's commitment to ongoing monitoring. This includes urging the Union government to decide on key issues within a reasonable timeframe, emphasizing sustainable programs for indigenous cows, exploring the medicinal properties of cow urine, and ensuring the proper implementation of the Pashu Aadhar numerical database.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court's involvement in addressing the LSD epidemic demonstrates a balanced approach, considering the complexities involved in managing the outbreak among cattle. The collaborative efforts of the Union, states, and the petitioner reflect a commitment to safeguarding the well-being of cows while allowing for continued scrutiny and intervention as needed.
TAGS: Cattle Union of India States Prevention measures Petition Closure Outbreak Mosquitoes and biting flies Skin nodules Media reports
