In the heart of New Delhi, the judiciary has issued mandates to combat the illicit utilization of oxytocin within dairy enclaves, deeming such administration as an act of cruelty towards animals and a punishable offense.

Presiding over the bench, Acting Chief Justice Manmohan Court decreed that the Department of Drugs Control of the Delhi government undertake weekly surveillance, instigating legal proceedings to be pursued by law enforcement agencies.

Moreover, the Intelligence Department of the Delhi Police was enjoined to uncover the origins, packaging, and dissemination channels of oxytocin, taking requisite legal measures.

This judicial directive stemmed from a petition filed by Sunayana Sibal and cohorts concerning the condition of dairy farms in the capital. The bench, inclusive of Justice Manmeet PS Arora, highlighted the prevalent misuse of oxytocin to induce lactation and augment milk production among livestock.

In light of oxytocin’s administration being classified as animal maltreatment and a cognizable offense under Section 12 of The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, the court mandated rigorous inspections by the Department of Drugs Control, ensuring all instances of illicit oxytocin usage are duly prosecuted under relevant statutes.

Furthermore, the court underscored the imperative of relocating dairy facilities to locales boasting adequate sanitation, drainage systems, biogas infrastructure, and expansive grazing grounds for cattle.

A court-appointed commissioner reported the deplorable state of all nine designated dairy colonies in Delhi, characterizing their condition as substandard. Particularly concerning were the proximity of Ghazipur Dairy and Bhalaswa Dairy to landfill sites, prompting the court to advocate for their immediate relocation.

Recognizing the potential health hazards posed by dairies situated adjacent to landfill sites, the court advocated for their expeditious relocation, soliciting input from concerned officials before issuing binding directives.

Officials were tasked with identifying suitable sites for the rehabilitation and relocation of dairy facilities, with the chief secretary instructed to convene a preliminary meeting with relevant stakeholders ahead of the next hearing on May 8th.