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Chandigarh: HC seeks UT's response on veterinary infrastructure and regulatory framework
The Punjab and Haryana High Court on May 11, 2026, directed Chandigarh administration to respond to a plea regarding veterinary infrastructure and regulatory mechanisms in the city. The plea alleges absence of a statutory veterinary council and inadequate facilities, with the next hearing scheduled for May 19.
Why It Matters
The case highlights regulatory gaps in veterinary education and services in Chandigarh, potentially affecting animal welfare and public health oversight.
Timeline
1 Event
HC directs UT to respond to NGO plea on veterinary infra and regulation
May 11, 2026
The division bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sanjiv Berry of the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed advocate Himanshu Malik, representing the Chandigarh administration, to seek instructions on whether Chandigarh has an independent veterinary council or shares one with another union territory. The plea, filed by Megafauna Welfare Foundation, alleges the UT has not set up a statutory veterinary council or the requisite infrastructure as mandated by the Indian Veterinary Council Act, 1984, resulting in a lack of regulatory mechanisms for registration, supervision, and discipline of veterinary practitioners. It also claims Chandigarh lacks a veterinary college or any Veterinary Council of India-recognised institution, forcing aspirants to pursue education outside the city. The NGO contends that veterinary infrastructure is inadequate, with few hospitals and sub-centres, no mobile units, and reliance on central schemes. The matter is listed for the next hearing on May 19.