Man files habeas corpus to get back bull detained by cops, BMC

Many habeas corpus petitions have been filed for production of missing or illegally detained persons. However, the petition has been filed in the Bombay high court (HC) seeking custody of a bull allegedly detained by the police and corporation authorities.

Many habeas corpus petitions have been filed for production of missing or illegally detained persons. However, the petition has been filed in the Bombay high court (HC) seeking custody of a bull allegedly detained by the police and corporation authorities.

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HC on Wednesday issued notices to the DB Marg police and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation for illegally keeping in their custody, a bull meant for sacrifice during Bakri-Eid in November 2011.

Byculla resident Muzaammil Ansari, 24, had purchased a bull from the Deonar abattoir for Rs25,000. On October 8, 2011, the second petitioner, Maruti Salunkhe, hitched the bull to his bullock cart to take it to Ansari’s house. On the way, the bull broke free. Ansari and others chased it, in vain. They then learned that the DB Marg police had captured the bull and registered a case against unknown persons on October 10, 2011 under sections of various acts, including Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act.

Ansari approached the police for release of his bull, but was turned down. He then moved the Girgaum Metropolitan Court for the bull’s release, which passed an order in his favour. He then paid the bond of Rs4,970 and Rs3,000 respectively to the authorities, who refused to release the bull, the petition says.

A division bench of justice V M Kanade and justice P D Kode has directed authorities to file a reply within a week.