Saili Dixit Gadkari

Should India Have A More Strict Laws Against Animal Cruelty? We humans have numerous traits in our personality. Similar to the seven colours in a rainbow, we harbour different emotions, thoughts and feelings. Many times, it seems as though our fellow humans do not understand us. It is not uncommon that we then turn to our furry friends, “​Animals​’’. They are one of the best resorts of comfort we can have, isn’t it? Animals have coexisted with humans since ages. However, owing to their inherent characteristics of not being able to speak, think and decide for themselves, they are often subjected to abusive behaviour, what is commonly known as “animal cruelty”. Ranging from pelting stones, yelling, kicking, throwing objects, pouring harmful liquids, to beating and killing, all these are faced by our innocent animals. Ever wondered why they have to go through this pain? Simply because, they cannot retaliate. Atleast not the domesticated or non-wild species. Nobody deserves any act of cruelty including these creations of God. With increasing awareness about several acts of injustice, animal cruelty is also being addressed by all countries on the globe. Coming to our motherland, “India”, the existing laws state penalties that are as meagre as rupees 10 to 50 for any abuse including those mentioned above done to animals. The Prevention of Cruelty to animals act (PCA), 1960 has not been revised since decades. It is under this act that the pathetically low fines are to be imposed. With such less penalties, culprits are tempted to redo injustice to the poor animals, being assured of getting away by paying an extremely lower fine. Though animal cruelty is considered cognizable as per sections 428 and 429 of the Indian penal code, the acts of beating, kicking, or other forms of torturing animals are not considered cognizable. There is indeed a need to form and implement stricter laws in India against animal cruelty. When thinking about this, one can always put him or her in place of our furry friends and imagine being targeted for acts of play, abuse. How would it feel? Just because animals cannot speak, defend themselves and go out and seek justice does not mean they be subject to any kind of bad behaviour. The existing laws need to be revised and more stricter and stringent laws need to be enforced. It is our duty to abide by these laws. While we our moving ahead towards more and more progress in terms of science, technology and diversity in inclusion principles, we also need to pay deep attention to our near and dear ones which include our animals too. Awareness shall be created among the young children and youth since it is easier to inculcate these values of respect and love for all from the very beginning. Social campaigns can be initiated to support this cause. All should come together for this noble movement.