NEW DELHI: In a landmark ruling aimed at holding authorities accountable, the Supreme Court has set a significant precedent for compensation in cases involving fatalities caused by stray cattle. This decision comes at a crucial time, as such incidents have been on an upward trend across the nation. The court awarded ₹15 lakh to the family of a man who lost his life in 2007 following an attack by a bull in Punjab.
The bench, consisting of Justices Sanjay Karol and N.K. Singh, emphasized that state governments cannot shirk their responsibilities toward individuals harmed or killed due to stray cattle incidents. In a directive aimed at safeguarding public welfare, the Justices instructed all states to formulate rules to establish a structured mechanism for compensating victims of accidents involving cattle. This applies to both pedestrians and vehicles alike.
Key Directives from the Supreme Court:
- All state governments must develop compensation frameworks for incidents involving stray cattle.
- Mechanisms should cover both pedestrian accidents and those involving vehicles.
- Authorities are urged to manage stray cattle effectively.
- Action should be taken against owners who irresponsibly abandon their animals on public roads.
The Supreme Court’s ruling serves as a critical reminder of the paramount importance of public safety in the context of increasing encounters with stray cattle, urging state governments to proactively address this pressing issue for the welfare of citizens.
