Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department tasked to devise a strategy with inter-departmental support
The Allahabad High Court, in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed concerning the escalating monkey menace in Lucknow, has directed the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department to prepare a comprehensive work plan within a month. The directive, issued by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Kshitij Shailendra, emphasizes the urgent need for a coordinated effort to address the issue.
During a hearing on January 13, 2026, the court reviewed the minutes of a meeting held on January 8, 2026, which involved the Municipal Corporation of Lucknow and representatives from People for Animals, among others. The meeting concluded with the decision to assign the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department the primary responsibility for mitigating the monkey menace, with a mandate to prepare a detailed action plan within a month. Other departments have been instructed to provide necessary support to ensure the effective implementation of the plan.
The court also acknowledged the submission of a modified tentative action plan by the Animal Welfare Board of India, recommending that the proposed measures be considered in the development of the department's strategy.
The PIL, brought forth by petitioners Vineet Sharma and another, highlights the growing concerns of residents and the need for prompt and decisive action to address the disturbances caused by the monkey population in urban areas. The court has set February 17, 2026, as the next date for the matter to be listed, expecting the action plan to be presented by then.
Counsel Pawan Kumar Tiwari and Akash Vashishtha represented the petitioners, while the respondents were represented by a team of legal advocates including Additional Advocate General Manish Goyal and others.
Bottom Line:
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning monkey menace in Lucknow - Responsibility assigned to the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department to prepare a comprehensive work plan within a month, with support from other departments as required.
Statutory provision(s): Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department responsibilities, Public Interest Litigation procedures.
Vineet Sharma v. State of Uttar Pradesh, (Allahabad)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2838155
