SMC cites ‘serious concern’ over alarming rise in animal mortality in Srinagar, relieves MVO immediately

Srinagar, Dec 25, KDC: The Commissioner of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has relieved its Municipal Veterinary Officer, from his duties with immediate effect, citing administrative negligence and dereliction of duty in the implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme and management of animal care facilities.

An official order (No. 1175 of 2025) issued by the Commissioner, a copy of which is in the possession of news agency Kashmir Dot Com reads that multiple animal deaths occurred due to alleged negligence in the ABC programme, which was being executed through M/S CAWS, an empanelled agency already facing an FIR registered by the Crime Branch. The order further expressed “serious concern” over an alarming rise in animal mortality over the past two months, attributed to lack of medical care and malnourishment, despite adequate supply of manpower, medicines and food from the corporation.

The Commissioner also observed that essential medical supplies and food/fodder were missing at the facility, even though clear directions and sufficient budgetary provisions had been made. Additionally, mandatory compliance and inventory registers were not being maintained, violating standard operating procedures.

Dr. Fazil Bashir Rather, has been directed to hand over charge along with a detailed charge report to Transport Officer, Shahid Issrar Ali, and vacate the corporation premises immediately. SMC has also requested the Agriculture Production Department to depute a substitute Municipal Veterinary Officer to fill the post. (KDC).