Key Update

A division bench of the Guwahati High Court has delivered a split verdict on petitions seeking a ban on dog meat sale in Nagaland, with the two judges expressing differing views.

Judges Differ on Legality of 2023 Order

The Kohima bench issued opposing rulings on appeals filed by People For Animals and Humane Society International/India in 2023, and by Akhil Bharat Krishi Goseva Sangh in 2024. These appeals challenged a June 2, 2023 judgment that had set aside the state government’s earlier ban. Justice Budi Habung dismissed the petitions, upholding the earlier ruling that allows the sale and consumption of dog meat. In contrast, Justice Robin Phukan allowed the appeals and set aside the 2023 judgment. A detailed order is awaited.

Background: 2020 Ban and Legal Challenge

In 2020, the Nagaland government banned the commercial import and trading of dogs, dog markets, and the sale of dog meat. The decision drew mixed reactions within the state, where some communities consider dog meat culturally significant. Soon after, licensed traders challenged the ban, questioning the government’s authority to impose it.

Earlier Court Ruling

In 2023, the Kohima bench of the Guwahati  High Court struck down the state’s ban. Justice Marli Vankun ruled that the chief secretary was not the competent authority to issue such an order under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, which assigns such powers to the Commissioner of Food Safety. The latest split verdict means the matter remains unresolved until further judicial clarification.

Source: Hindustan Times