Bhunda Mahayagya: Legal notice over alleged animal sacriifice
Shimla, Dec 31,
Taking cognizance on the expected mass scarifice of allegedly hundreds of animals in a ritual, a legal notice was served to organizers of Bhunda Mahayagya in a shrine at Rohru in Shimla district.
The legal notice was served to the Shimla district and Rohru administration regarding the alleged practice of animal sacrifice during the Bhunda Mahayagya of Bakraloo Devta, scheduled from January 2 to January 5, 2025, in Spail Valley, Rohru.
Representing animal rights activist Gauri Maulekhi, her advocate has called upon authorities to ensure compliance with court orders prohibiting animal sacrifice in Himachal Pradesh.
The notice highlights that the proposed sacrifice of goats and lambs during the Mahayagya contravenes the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (PCA Act), as well as rulings by the Hon’ble Supreme Court and the Himachal Pradesh High Court.
The Supreme Court, in its 2017 judgment in the “Maheshwar Singh & Anr vs State of Himachal Pradesh & Ors” case, mandated that animal slaughter must occur only in legally authorized areas. Similarly, the High Court, in its 2014 judgment, prohibited animal sacrifices in temples and public places.
Noteworthy that as per apex court interim orders there are conditions specified to carry out such a practice. Firstly it should happen with prior permission of municipal authorities. In accordance with law – would mean in accordance with Slaughter house Rules and also representative of Animal Welfare Board of India are to inspect the same.
“Here none of these directions of Supreme Court are being followed”, informed the advocate.
The notice urges authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Rohru, to inspect the temple premises and public areas to prevent illegal animal sacrifices. It also calls for strict action against individuals and officials who permit or partake in such practices, warning of potential contempt of court proceedings under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.
Advocate Siddharth Pandey emphasized in the notice, that non-compliance with the judgments would amount to contempt of court, punishable under Article 215 of the Constitution of India. The notice also seeks an immediate compliance report from the administration.
Noteworthy that last time, the Bhunda Mahyagya took place in the temple of Dalgaon 39 years ago. Approximately five lakh people are expected to participate in this ceremony and reportedly an estimated budget of Rs 100 Cr will be spent. The biggest thing about this ritual is that a person will cross the valley of death for the 9th time.
However now the traditional religious ritual, has sparked debate over its adherence to age-old customs versus legal and ethical considerations. Animal rights activists have consistently opposed the practice, citing cruelty and the violation of legal statutes.
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