Animal Cruelty in India: Laws, FAQs, and How to Report It

This Act was made to protect animals from unnecessary pain and suffering. It applies to all animals (domestic and wild) in India, except those used in scientific experiments (regulated separately).

Key Points:

• Cruelty to animals is punishable, including beating, kicking, starving, overloading, or torturing animals.
• No person should treat animals cruelly, whether they are pets, strays, or working animals (like bulls or horses).
• Transport, housing, and working conditions for animals must be safe and humane.
• Animal experimentation is regulated under strict guidelines.
• The law led to the creation of the Animal Welfare Board of India.
• First-time offenders may get fines (₹10–₹50) or jail for repeat cruelty, though the penalties are considered outdated and weak.
• Religious slaughter (like during Eid or rituals) is not banned but regulated.

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 – FAQs

1. What is this Act about?
   It protects animals from unnecessary pain, cruelty, or suffering caused by humans.
2. Which animals are covered under this law?
   All domestic and wild animals, including strays, farm animals, and working animals.
3. Is beating or hitting an animal a punishable offense?
   Yes. Causing physical harm to any animal is considered cruelty and is punishable.
4. Can I keep a pet under this law?
   Yes, but you must treat the pet kindly and meet its basic needs (food, shelter, care).
5. What is considered cruelty to animals under this Act?
   Hitting, kicking, starving, overloading, improper transportation, abandoning, or forcing them to work when sick or injured.
6. Can I feed stray animals under this Act?
   Yes. Feeding animals is not a crime. In fact, the courts have supported it, but public order must be maintained.
7. Is animal sacrifice allowed under this Act?
   It is not banned, but it must follow local laws and not involve unnecessary cruelty.
8. What is the punishment under this Act?
   Usually a fine of ₹10–₹50. Repeat offenders may face jail or higher fines, but these punishments are considered too lenient.
9. Is transporting animals in poor conditions illegal?
   Yes. Animals must be transported in a safe, ventilated, and non-cruel way.
10. Can animals be used in experiments under this law?
    Yes, but only under strict guidelines and ethical oversight.
11. Is using animals in circuses allowed?
    Only if rules are followed. But certain wild animals (like lions and tigers) have been banned in circuses by separate orders.
12. Are street dogs protected under this Act?
    Yes. Beating, killing, or displacing street dogs without proper procedure is illegal.
13. What should I do if I see someone being cruel to an animal?
    Call the local police or report it to the Animal Welfare Board of India or local animal NGOs.
14. Who enforces this law?
    The police, local authorities, and the Animal Welfare Board of India.
15. Can I be arrested for hurting an animal?
    Yes, especially if it's a repeat offense or involves serious cruelty.
16. What is the Animal Welfare Board of India?
    A government body set up under this Act to promote animal welfare and monitor cruelty cases.
17. Is abandoning a pet illegal under this Act?
    Yes. Leaving your pet without care or shelter is a punishable offense.
18. Can animals be used for religious or cultural events?
    Yes, but without cruelty and within the limits of the law.
19. Is there any plan to make the law stricter?
    Yes. The government has proposed amendments to increase punishments and improve protection.
20. Can I file a case against someone for animal cruelty?
    Yes. You can file an FIR with the police or report to the Animal Welfare Board or NGOs.