New York City Council Passes Horse Carriage Ban Law in Honour of Indian Teen

New York City Council has passed a law to ban horse-drawn carriages, naming the legislation Romanch’s Law in memory of Indian teenager Romanch Mahajan, who died in a carriage accident in Central Park in June. The bill was adopted on Thursday following years of campaigning by animal rights activists and renewed calls for a ban after the teenager’s death. 

Romanch’s Law Honours Indian Teen Killed in Central Park

In June, Romanch Mahajan was visiting New York City with his parents and brother after completing his higher secondary education at Angel’s Public School in Mamun, Pathankot. During their visit, the family went to Central Park to enjoy the sights and take photographs. The carriage driver stopped to take a picture of the family when the horse suddenly bolted. The animal’s sudden movement caused the carriage to overturn, throwing the passengers from the vehicle and turning the family outing into a tragedy. The incident resulted in Romanch sustaining fatal injuries and prompted renewed calls for stronger measures to prevent similar accidents involving horse-drawn carriages.

Romanch reportedly tried to save his mother as she was thrown from the carriage. During the incident, his head struck the ground, and he later died in hospital. His death renewed demands from animal rights activists to end horse-drawn carriage rides in the city. For years, campaigners had faced opposition from carriage owners and the union representing drivers.

Mayor’s Approval Expected as Law Gains Support

Romanch’s uncle, Gaurav Mahajan, attended a rally outside City Hall before the vote and urged New Yorkers not to forget his nephew.

 “True justice means recognising that these gentle, majestic horses do not belong on the congested asphalt or trapped in dangerous traffic.” said, Gaurav Mahajan. 

City Council Speaker Julie Menin said the vote demonstrated the Council’s commitment to animal welfare, public safety and worker protection. The bill now awaits the signature of Mayor Zohran Mamdani; however, the reported vote margin is sufficient to override a veto, allowing the legislation to become law even without his approval.