Nagpur High Court Mandates Immediate Closure of Illegal Animal Market
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court delivered a stern oral reprimand on Friday, directing the forest department to execute an immediate and permanent shutdown of the unlawful bird and animal market operating in Lakadganj. This decisive action follows a writ petition filed by petitioner Charanjeet Singh Renu, highlighting open violations of wildlife protection statutes.
Court Reprimands Multiple Authorities for Inaction
A divisional bench comprising Justice Anil Kilor and Justice Rajesh Wakode issued a strict order mandating the closure and reprimanded all nine respondent authorities for their failure to enforce animal and wildlife protection laws. The respondents include:
- Deputy Conservator of Forests
- Chief Wildlife Warden
- Municipal Commissioner
- Commissioner of Police
The court has set a deadline of February 2 for these authorities to submit their official response regarding the matter.
Disturbing Details Revealed in Petition
The petition, represented by counsel Ajay Maheshwari and supported by a prior complaint dated September 24, 2025, exposed alarming conditions at the Sunday market. Protected bird species alongside rabbits, cats, dogs, and exotic animals are allegedly sold openly in extremely cruel and unhygienic environments.
Key findings from the petition include:
- Animals are crammed into rickety carriages, overcrowded cages, and even stuffed into carton boxes.
- Many animals suffer without adequate food, water, or medical care, constituting unnecessary pain and suffering prohibited under Sections 3 and 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
- Rabbits and pigeons are reportedly kept with their legs tied, severely restricting their movement.
Multiple Legal Violations Documented
The petition further highlights blatant violations of several wildlife protection statutes:
- Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, trade in protected species and acts constituting hunting under Section 9 are cognisable and non-bailable offences.
- Possession of such wildlife without a valid permit is prohibited under Section 40 of the Act.
- Sales are conducted from roadside shanties, cycles, and handcarts instead of permanent structures with basic facilities like water, electricity, and veterinary care, violating Rules 6 and 7.
Court Notes Authorities' Failure to Act
The court observed that despite the petitioner submitting a detailed complaint with photographic and videographic evidence to the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Nagpur, and other senior authorities on September 24, 2025, followed by repeated reminders, no meaningful or permanent action was taken. The illegal market continued operations unabated and even advertised its activities and contact details through video posts on YouTube, demonstrating brazen defiance of the law and a clear dereliction of statutory duties.
