A majority of the Indian population sees stray animals as a threat. Therefore, street animals in India face a great deal of suffering. While they live through harsh conditions, exposure to extreme weather, and a high risk of injuries. Many street animals also suffer from neglect and abuse at the hands of humans. These poor souls go through an unbelievable amount of pain and suffering. Despite there being animal laws in India to protect the strays, we cannot deny that the Life of Stray Animals in India is miserable.
People find it casual to poison or beat a dog. This inhumanity calls for strict laws to protect these fur babies. However, many organizations and individuals are working to improve the life of strays. But what we need immediately are some potent laws by the Government. It is essential to make people realize the seriousness of their crimes, which can result in severe consequences.
Laws and Rights to Protect Stray Animals in India
It is Illegal to Poison Stray Animals
Yes, that’s right! It is illegal to poison stray animals in India as well as in many other countries. And it should not come as a surprise. It is unlawful to take someone’s life. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 in India, prohibits causing injury to any animal. And this law includes provisions for the punishment of those found guilty. The penalty is a fine of at least 2000 and sometimes a jail time of 5 years.
Poisoning innocent stray animals is ethically and morally wrong. But we still see incidents like Kerala, where thousands of street dogs were poisoned. And for people who cover this as an excuse to control the population of street animals. There are more compassionate and humane approaches to this concern.
It is against the law to Relocate Stray Animals from their Territory
Stray animals often establish territories and social networks, and relocating them can cause stress and confusion. The recent incident in Gurugram where dogs were beaten up and taken away in sacks is a heart-breaking example of animal cruelty.
Under Section 11(1)(i) and 11(1)(j) of the PCA Act, it is illegal to relocate stray animals. As per the High Court Orders, all sterilized dogs must remain in their original areas. Society can contact the welfare department for vaccination and sterilization if a dog is intact.
In addition, relocating stray animals without proper planning is a risk to public health and safety. Migrating animals may become more aggressive or carry diseases that can spread to other animals or humans.
Starving Street Dogs deliberately is Illegal
It is illegal to intentionally starve stray animals and take away their shelter under Section 11(1)(h) of the PCA Act. Many individuals and organizations have taken the matter into their hands. And have started food drives for stray animals. However, some people try to stop them from doing so.
Some members of society feel that the overpopulation of dogs is an issue and that the best solution is to starve them to death. This inhumane thinking is such a shame. All animals, including street dogs, have the right to adequate nutrition and care. And denying them, this basic need only adds to their suffering and distress.
Capturing them Against their Will is Illegal
Capturing animals forcefully to remove them from their familiar surroundings can impact the animal’s physical and psychological health. Therefore, it is a form of cruelty and is illegal under Section 9 of the Wildlife Protection Act. No one can capture or bait street animals to cause harm. If someone is guilty of doing so or even attempting, they can face severe consequences.
Sometimes, capturing street animals may be necessary for their protection or to provide medical care. However, without proper justification and consideration, as per the animal laws in India, it is illegal and a form of animal cruelty. It is always important to consider the welfare of the animals when capturing them. And ensure that all captures are in an ethical and humane manner.
There are several animal laws in India to protect our strays, and it is our duty to know them. The government, along with animal welfare organizations, is working to enforce these laws and ensure the well-being of these animals. People need to know and respect animal rights and understand that #StrayLivesMatter.