New York City Council Enacts Law Banning Horse-Drawn Carriages in Memory of Indian Teen
New Legislation in Honor of Romanch Mahajan
File image of Romanch Mahajan(Photo: @TheEquinesVoice/X)
New York, Oct 23: The City Council has enacted a new law prohibiting horse-drawn carriages, named in memory of an Indian teenager who tragically lost his life in an accident involving one of these vehicles in Central Park.
This legislation, referred to as Romanch's Law, was officially adopted on Thursday.
It serves as a tribute to Romanch Mahajan, who died in June while attempting to save his mother, Priya, after she was thrown from the carriage when the horse bolted.
In his effort to protect her, Romanch struck his head on the ground and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.
Gaurav Mahajan, Romanch's uncle, attended a rally supporting the ban outside City Hall prior to the bill's passage.
He expressed, “True justice means acknowledging that these gentle, majestic horses should not be on busy streets or caught in hazardous traffic.”
“On behalf of his parents and brother, I urge New Yorkers to remember Romanch,” he added.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin remarked, “Our historic vote to pass Romanch's Law reflects this Council's dedication to animal welfare, public safety, and the protection of workers.”
For years, animal rights advocates have pushed for a ban on horse-drawn carriages, facing resistance from carriage owners and the drivers' union.
The tragic incident involving Romanch provided the necessary momentum to finally pass this law.
Now, Mayor Zohran Mamdani is expected to sign the bill, but even if he chooses not to, it will still become law due to the overwhelming support it received.
Romanch Mahajan had recently completed his higher secondary education at Angel’s Public School in Mamun, Pathankot, and was visiting New York with his family.
They were enjoying Central Park when the carriage driver halted to take a family photo, at which point the horse unexpectedly bolted, leading to the carriage overturning.