📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Subhashish Panigrahi
National
Supreme Court Orders Centre, States to Set Up Compensation Scheme for Stray Cattle Accident Victims
✍️ LawBeat
🗓 18 Aug 2026, 07:37 AM
👁 7
The Supreme Court has directed the Union and state governments to devise a compensation mechanism for victims of stray cattle accidents, urging prompt action to address the growing safety concern.
In a recent judgment, the Supreme Court directed the Union and state governments to formulate a compensation mechanism for those injured or killed in stray cattle accidents. The court emphasized the need for a prompt and comprehensive response to the escalating incidents involving wandering cattle. It urged the Centre and the states to consider existing legislation and to design a scheme that would provide timely relief to victims and their families.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over road safety, as stray cattle have become a frequent cause of accidents across India. The court noted that the lack of a clear compensation framework has left many families without adequate support. It called for a coordinated effort to establish a fund or insurance scheme that could cover medical expenses, loss of income, and other related costs.
The Supreme Court also urged the government to review current policies on livestock management and to strengthen enforcement measures to prevent cattle from roaming freely on roads. By addressing both preventive and compensatory aspects, the court believes a balanced approach can reduce the number of such accidents.
The directive is expected to prompt the Centre and states to submit proposals within a stipulated timeframe, ensuring that victims receive the assistance they deserve while also encouraging safer road practices.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over road safety, as stray cattle have become a frequent cause of accidents across India. The court noted that the lack of a clear compensation framework has left many families without adequate support. It called for a coordinated effort to establish a fund or insurance scheme that could cover medical expenses, loss of income, and other related costs.
The Supreme Court also urged the government to review current policies on livestock management and to strengthen enforcement measures to prevent cattle from roaming freely on roads. By addressing both preventive and compensatory aspects, the court believes a balanced approach can reduce the number of such accidents.
The directive is expected to prompt the Centre and states to submit proposals within a stipulated timeframe, ensuring that victims receive the assistance they deserve while also encouraging safer road practices.