A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been moved before the Kerala High Court highlighting the “unfathomable agony” of domesticated bovines at the Perumbavoor cattle market. The petition alleges that animals are being subjected to severe cruelty, including being tethered in the scorching sun without access to water or shelter.
The plea, filed by animal rights activist Angels Nair, contends that municipal and local body cattle markets across the state, specifically the one in Perumbavoor, are operating in gross violation of animal welfare regulations. The petitioner argues that the temporary nature of the animals’ stay—often only a few days before slaughter—does not justify the lack of basic necessities.
The core of the legal challenge rests on the allegation that these markets are ignoring critical safety guidelines. According to the petition, the current operations run contrary to the “Livestock in the Event of Heat Wave Situation” advisory issued by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
Furthermore, the PIL asserts that the markets are in breach of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Regulation of Livestock Markets) Rules, 2017. These rules mandate specific standards for the housing, feeding, and watering of animals in commercial trade hubs.
“The cattle will be slaughtered in a couple of days, which is not an excuse for inflicting unfathomable agony,” the plea states, emphasizing that the right to a humane environment persists regardless of the animal’s ultimate destination.
The petitioner has sought the intervention of the High Court to ensure that cattle markets in Kerala adhere to statutory requirements. Specifically, the plea asks for directions to stop the “illegal functioning” of markets that fail to provide:
- Proper overhead shelter to protect animals from direct sunlight.
- Adequate and accessible drinking water facilities.
- Sufficient space to prevent animals from being “tightly tethered” for prolonged periods.
The High Court is expected to consider the matter, which brings into focus the intersection of local commerce and the enforcement of central animal welfare laws during extreme weather conditions.
