Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 14 June 2024
In a recent advisory, the Animal Welfare Board of India has called for stringent measures to ensure the strict implementation of animal welfare laws, particularly concerning the transportation and slaughter of animals. This advisory aims to prevent cruelty towards animals and to uphold the legal standards set forth for their protection.
According to Rule 3 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Slaughter House) Rules, 2001, no individual is permitted to slaughter animals within municipal areas unless it is done in a slaughterhouse that is recognised or licensed by the relevant authority. Additionally, specific protections are in place for vulnerable animals: those that are pregnant, have offspring under three months old, are themselves under three months of age, or have not been certified as fit for slaughter by a veterinary doctor.
The advisory underscores that violations of these animal welfare regulations can result in severe consequences for offenders. These regulations are enforced under a variety of laws, including the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960; the Transport of Animals Rules, 1978 (amended in 2001 and 2009); the Transport of Animals on Foot Rule, 2001; the Slaughter House Rules, 2001 (amended in 2010); municipal laws; and the regulations of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
In light of these regulations, the Animal Welfare Board has urged all stakeholders, including animal transporters, slaughterhouse operators, and meat shop owners, to take all necessary precautions to ensure full compliance with animal welfare laws and to prevent illegal animal killings.
This advisory serves as a crucial reminder of the legal and ethical obligations towards animal welfare, highlighting the need for vigilance and responsibility among those involved in the handling and processing of animals.