Delhi High Court Issues Stern Warning to Civic Agencies Over Ghazipur Illegal Slaughterhouses
The Delhi High Court on Thursday delivered a sharp rebuke to the city's civic agencies, threatening contempt proceedings if they fail to address the "horrifying" conditions at illegal slaughterhouses operating in the Ghazipur chicken market. The court's stern warning came during a hearing on a contempt plea that alleged authorities have not complied with its 2018 order banning the slaughter of birds at Ghazipur Murga Mandi.
Court Demands Immediate Action and Detailed Affidavits
A bench comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and other relevant agencies to file detailed affidavits within two weeks. These affidavits must outline the specific steps taken to enforce the ban on illegal slaughter activities. The bench expressed serious concern, questioning whether its September 24, 2018 order was being openly violated in the area.
"Please ensure that this is done. This is horrifying," the bench remarked, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The court's 2018 order had noted large-scale environmental violations at the mandi and permitted only the sale of live birds until a compliant, environmentally sound facility was established.
Contempt Plea and Evidence Presented
The contempt plea was filed by animal welfare activist Gauri Maulekhi, who submitted photographic evidence showing the continued illegal slaughter of chicken and other birds in the Ghazipur market. These images reportedly depicted ongoing activities that blatantly disregard the court's previous directives.
Representing the MCD, advocate Tushar Sannu informed the court that action had been taken against erring units. He assured the bench that strict measures would follow against any slaughterhouse operating without a licence or violating prescribed conditions. However, the court's warning indicates dissatisfaction with the current enforcement efforts.
Background and Implications
The issue dates back to 2018 when the Delhi High Court intervened to address environmental and regulatory concerns at Ghazipur Murga Mandi. The court's order aimed to curb unsanitary and illegal practices, allowing only the sale of live birds as a temporary measure. The recent hearing highlights persistent failures in implementation, raising questions about civic accountability and public health.
This development underscores the ongoing challenges in regulating urban markets and enforcing judicial orders in Delhi. The court's intervention serves as a critical reminder of the need for robust oversight and timely action by civic authorities to prevent environmental degradation and ensure compliance with legal standards.
