Allahabad HC Declines SIT Probe into Cow Deaths at Vrindavan Gaushalas, Directs State to Ensure Monitoring
By Rajesh Pandey
The Allahabad High Court has refused to order a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the alleged deaths of cows and calves at several Gaushalas in Vrindavan, Mathura district. The court noted that the state government has already taken corrective measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed by one Prahalad Krishna Shukla, seeking a high-level SIT investigation into the reported deaths of nearly 50 cows and calves at various Gaushalas in December 2024. The petitioner also urged the court to direct continuous monitoring of these shelters and punish those responsible for negligence.
Petitioner’s Allegations
According to the PIL, on December 13, 2024, more than 50 cows and calves were allegedly found dead in the Dhaurera area near PMB Polytechnic on Mathura-Vrindavan Road. Newspaper reports highlighted the issue, and animal welfare activists even collected photographic evidence showing injured animals. The petitioner argued that despite filing a formal application for a high-level inquiry, no concrete action had been taken, which compelled him to approach the court.
Court Proceedings
Initially, the court sought a response from the state authorities. The government informed that, immediately after the incident came to light, an investigation team was constituted on December 13, 2024, consisting of the City Magistrate, Additional Commissioner of Nagar Nigam, police officials, and veterinary department authorities.
This committee conducted an extensive probe and submitted an interim report by December 16, 2024. An FIR was also registered in connection with the matter.
However, the petitioner’s counsel insisted that the reported deaths were “undeniable” and pointed out that the authorities had failed to identify culprits or take punitive action against Gaushalas allegedly responsible for negligence.
State Government’s Stand
The counsel for the state government disputed the petitioner’s claims, asserting that the inquiry revealed only five cow deaths from two Gaushalas, not 50 as alleged. He further clarified that whenever a cow dies, specific land parcels are earmarked for their burial, ensuring that due process is followed.
Court’s Decision
After considering both sides, the division bench of Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Kshitij Shailendra concluded that there was no need to prolong the litigation. While disposing of the PIL on August 13, 2025, the court directed the state authorities to ensure regular monitoring of Gaushalas and to take adequate steps for the welfare and protection of cows.
The bench observed: Given the above fact situation and the documents placed on record, we do not find any reason to continue with the present PIL; hence, the same stands disposed of.”
The judgment underscores the judiciary’s emphasis on preventive and supervisory action by state authorities rather than launching a new probe when inquiries are already underway.
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