Supreme Court to consider shortly the petition filed by the Buffalo Traders Welfare Association against the 2017 Cattle Rules brought by the Centre under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

On the last hearing date, January 4, the CJI had warned that the Court will stay the Rules if the Centre does not withdraw them. The CJI observed that the Rules are contrary to the parent statute.

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Matter taken.

"What are you going to do about the rules", CJI asks the Solicitor General.
'We told you last time that Rules are in dissonance with the Sections. The animals are the source of livelihood for people. The section is clear that only after conviction that animals can be taken away. The Rules permit to take away animals even before conviction' - CJI
Solicitor General : The petitioner has confused between seizure and confiscation. An animal subject to cruelty cannot be allowed to be maintained by the person. As in the case of any seizure, the party can approach the court for custody.
SG says that a detailed reply has been filed.

CJI : Alright we will consider the reply.
Senior Advs V Giri and Siddharth Luthra says that they are for intervenors.

Luthra says the Act allows for seizure. Giri seconds Luthra.

CJI : Even before conviction?

Luthra : Yes

SG : Your lordships will get all this in my reply.
CJI : Selling does not mean animal has been subjected to cruelty. Selling helps livelihood. We are talking about a situation where animals are taken away.
The bench adjourns the matter. Allows the interventions.

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