Mumbai: In a significant development following sustained efforts by the Federation of Maharashtra Muslims (FMM), the state government has clarified that only the police and authorized officials can enforce laws related to cattle transportation. The directive comes after a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar with top police officials, including DGP Rashmi Shukla and Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti.
The Federation had earlier met Pawar to highlight growing incidents of harassment, violence, and false cases against cattle traders, particularly from the Qureshi community. The delegation demanded action against self-styled ‘gau rakshaks’ who have been illegally stopping vehicles, attacking traders, and disrupting legally permitted cattle transportation. They also sought protection for licensed traders, withdrawal of false cases, and easing of restrictions on transportation permits.
Responding to these concerns, Pawar directed the police to ensure that private interference in cattle transportation is stopped immediately. Soon after, Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma, Special Inspector General (Law and Administration), issued a circular making it clear that no private individual has any legal authority to stop or assault traders. Citizens may report suspected illegal activity, but only police or designated authorities can take action under the law.
One of the crucial inputs behind this decision was the legal groundwork prepared by the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR). Under Advocate Shoaib Inamdar, APCR examined the Transport of Animals Rules, 1978, and prepared a draft for necessary amendments. This draft, forwarded to Pawar through former minister Nawab Malik and MLA Sana Malik, provided clarity that helped shape the government’s stand. The move is being hailed as a victory for the Qureshi community and other cattle traders, who see it as an important step toward curbing vigilantism and securing justice.
