s 48 Power to order destruction of animals
(1) A Magistrate, Government Medical Officer, or veterinary authority not below the rank of Assistant Veterinary Officer or police officer not below the rank of Inspector who has satisfied himself by personal inspection— (a) that an animal is diseased or injured and that the disease or injury from which the animal is suffering is incurable or that it is cruel to keep the animal alive; or (b) that an animal is so diseased or so severely injured or in such a physical condition that, in his opinion, having regard to the means available for removing the animal, there is no possibility of removing it without cruelty and that it is cruel to keep it alive, may by order in writing direct that such animal be destroyed, and such order may immediately be carried out by or under the direction of such officer or of any police officer: Provided that if the animal so diseased or injured is in any house, stable, shed, or enclosure proper for such animal and not in a public thoroughfare, market or place, no order shall be made until the owner of the animal (if known) or person in charge (if any) has been duly notified of the state of the animal. (2) If any animal is destroyed in pursuance of an order made under this section the expense of the removal and burial of the carcass of the animal shall be paid by the owner or person in charge and the amount may be recovered from such owner or person in charge in a summary manner before a Magistrate.