Ahmedabad: A city sessions court has ordered the release of a two-wheeler that was seized in connection with a cow slaughter case, making a notable observation that a bullock cannot be transported on a two-wheeler. The court's remark came after the prosecution opposed the owner's request to regain possession of the vehicle, which had been confiscated on the grounds that it was used for perpetrating cruelty towards animals.
Background of the Case
According to the case details, on December 6, 2025, the Shaherkotda police raided a location in the Madhubhai Mill compound following a tip-off about an illegal slaughterhouse operating on the premises. The police party received information that the accused individuals had brought two bullocks there. When they raided the premises, one of the bullocks had been allegedly slaughtered, while another was found alive. The police arrested seven persons, including Faisal Shaikh from Bapunagar, from the spot.
Seizure of Vehicles
The police also seized six vehicles, including five two-wheelers and an autorickshaw. Those arrested were charged under various provisions, including the Gujarat Animal Preservation Act, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporation Act, and the Gujarat Police Act.
Legal Proceedings for Vehicle Release
After obtaining bail, Shaikh requested the trial court at Gheekanta to release his two-wheeler, a Suzuki Access 125, but his application was rejected on April 3. This led him to approach the city sessions court, where his lawyer argued that the vehicle was not used directly or indirectly in the offence. The lawyer further contended that releasing the vehicle would not hamper the investigation, as it was rusting in the police station. The prosecution opposed the plea, arguing that the vehicle was illegally used in the offence.
Court's Observation
After hearing the arguments, the court stated, "The offence is regarding the purchase of two bullocks and one of them was slaughtered. Naturally, a bullock cannot be brought on a two-wheeler, and if the FIR is taken into consideration, the two-wheeler taken into custody by the investigating officer was not used in the transportation of the animals. It was lying at the place of raid, and there is no allegation that it was used in transportation of the animals. The trial court's order appears erroneous and requires interference."
Order for Release
With this observation, the court ordered the release of the two-wheeler upon furnishing a bond of 1.5 times the vehicle's value. The decision underscores the principle that a vehicle cannot be held indefinitely if it was not directly involved in the alleged offence.
