The Delhi High Court has made a significant decision to address the misuse of oxytocin in dairy colonies within the city. It has emphasized that the administration of oxytocin is a form of animal cruelty and a legal offense, urging regulatory bodies to conduct regular inspections and register cases against any illicit usage of the hormone. The court has highlighted the importance of taking action against the sources involved in the production, packaging, and distribution of oxytocin in compliance with the law.
Furthermore, the court's ruling is a response to a petition brought forward by concerned individuals regarding the state of dairies in Delhi. Noteworthy observations made by the court commissioner regarding the prevalent use of oxytocin to stimulate milk production in cattle have prompted the court to take firm steps to address this issue. The court has underscored the need for the Department of Drugs Control to enforce thorough inspections and ensure legal action is taken against any instances of spurious oxytocin use or possession, stressing the severity of the offense under animal cruelty and drug regulation acts.
Additionally, the court has highlighted the unsatisfactory conditions of designated dairy colonies in Delhi, noting the urgent need to relocate certain dairies situated near landfill sites. The court's concern for public health hazards arising from dairies next to landfill sites has led to a call for the immediate relocation of such facilities. It has summoned relevant officials to discuss relocation plans, suggesting the exploration of suitable lands for rehabilitating the dairies and emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in implementation.