Power of Veterinary Surgeon to examine animals

Power of Veterinary Surgeon to examine animals.—

1. (1) On receipt of a report under sub-section
2. (2) of section 8, the Veterinary Surgeon shall, as soon as practicable, examine the animal and all animals with which it has been in contact or to which it has been in close proximity, and for this purpose may submit any animal to any prescribed test.
3. (2) If after such examination the Veterinary Surgeon—
   • (a) is of opinion that any animal is not infective, the Inspector shall forthwith return it to the person who in his opinion is entitled to its possession : Provided that where such person cannot, in the opinion of the Inspector, be found after reasonable inquiry, he shall send the animal to the nearest cattle-pound or deal with it in such other manner as may be prescribed ;
   • (b) certifies in writing that any animal is affected with a scheduled disease, the Inspector may destroy the animal, or deal with it in such other manner as may be prescribed : Provided that nothing herein contained shall authorise the Inspector to destroy an animal the killing of which constitutes an offence under any law for the time being in force in the State ;
   • (c) certifies in writing that any animal is infective, though not diseased, the animal shall be dealt with in such manner as may be prescribed.
4. (3) The decision of the Veterinary Surgeon whether any animal has been in contact with or in close proximity to an animal suspected to be affected with a scheduled disease shall be final.