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Stiffer penalty for animal cruelty on cards
New Delhi: The government on Wednesday said it was planning to bring a legislation with stiffer penalties and punishments to prevent cruelty against animals. The proposed bill is expected to replace the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960.
Replying to a query in the Lok Sabha, environment and forests minister Jairam Ramesh said the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Animal Welfare Board of India Act, 1962, were meant to promote animal welfare and for the purpose of protecting animals from being subjected to unnecessary pain or suffering.
Responding to a question by BJP member Maneka Gandhi, the minister said, “We want to come with a comprehensive animal welfare act with steep penalties. Because, as of today, it (penalty) is laughable.” Maneka said the fine was as low as Rs 50. On a related issue, Ramesh said his ministry would be issuing advisories to state governments to emulate those governments that had banned animal sacrifice. He, however, said the government would desist from asking for a ban as the issue was a “sensitive one”. “As far as banning animal sacrifice is concerned, this is a sensitive issue and I want to proceed with some caution,” Ramesh said.
He also condemned games like bull fighting or taming of bull (Jallikattu) in some states. TNN
* Jairam Ramesh says his ministry will issue advisories to state governments to emulate those governments that have banned animal sacrifice. He, however, says the Centre will desist from asking for a ban as the issue is ‘sensitive’ |