The Gujarat government has directed authorities across the state to strictly enforce the ban on glue traps used to catch rats and other animals after the Gujarat High Court expressed serious concern over their continued sale and use.
Submitting an affidavit before the High Court, the state government said it has issued instructions to all district collectors and police commissioners to ensure strict compliance with the ban. Authorities have also been asked to take legal action against those found violating the directive.
The government informed the court that offenders could face action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with disobedience of lawful orders issued by public servants.
Hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a complete ban on glue traps, a bench headed by Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal observed that stocks of such products should be seized wherever they are found. The court also urged the state to look for effective and humane alternatives to tackle rodent-related crop damage.
During the hearing, the Advocate General admitted that glue traps cause immense suffering to animals, often leading to a slow and painful death. The court echoed these concerns, noting that modern animal welfare standards require authorities to adopt more compassionate methods of pest control.
The state further told the court that glue traps are not manufactured in Gujarat and are primarily sourced through online marketplaces such as Amazon and Flipkart before being sold locally.
The High Court directed the State Animal Monitoring Cell to carry out inspections and monitor enforcement efforts to ensure that the ban is implemented effectively across Gujarat.
Petitioner advocate Nimish Kapadia argued that glue traps are inherently cruel, as trapped animals often die after prolonged distress, dehydration and injury. He pointed out that several states have already prohibited such products, while they continue to remain available in Gujarat despite concerns raised by animal welfare groups.
The court is continuing to hear the matter and is expected to examine further measures to strengthen enforcement and prevent the sale of glue traps in the state.