Mumbai, October 13: Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Maharastra government has landed itself in a controversy after the state government issued a government resolution (GR) stating feeding stray animals on Mantralaya premises will not be allowed. The GR, issued on September 26 by the state's home department, has not gone well with animal activists who said that the circular violates Supreme Court and high court orders.

'Feeding Domestic Animals at Mantralaya Is Forbidden'

"To restrict stray dogs, cats, besides other domestic animals and birds on Mantralaya premises, BMC must take up necessary measures with immediate effect. The public works department must initiate steps to instal a 1-metre-high mesh wire fencing on the existing iron grille along the perimeter of Garden gate and Aarsaa gate at the rear of the Mantralaya building. Feeding domestic animals at Mantralaya is forbidden," the GR issued by the state government read. Bombay High Court Bats for Feeding Stray Dogs, Cautions Against Cruelty to Animals.

GR Draws Animal Activists Ire

As per a report in the Times of India, the circular by the Eknath Shinde government has not been received well by animal activists. Pallavi Patil, an animal activist, has sent several emails asking the state authorities to revoke the order. Patil also said that if the GR has been issued, then she will definitely challenge it in the court of law.

Peta India Reacts

Patil also said that the GR violates the orders issued by the Supreme Court and Bombay High Court. Meanwhile, Peta India urged the state's home department to withdraw the government resolution. Meet Ashar, Peta India's lawyer and animal rights advocate said that the GR is bad and should be withdrawn immediately. Animal Cruelty in Mumbai: Man Kicks and Assaults Stray Dog Before Locking Canine in BMC Pump House Room in Malad for 45 Minutes; Arrested.

Ashar also said that dogs and cats have peacefully coexisted on the Mantralaya premises. On the other hand, Sneha Visaria, founder trustee of Just Smile Charitable Trust, said the matter is being cited as a "security" issue by government authorities. "But how is any animal a security threat?" she asked.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 13, 2023 05:23 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).