By Clara Jones Jala
“I am in favour of animal rights as well as human rights. That is the way of a whole human being” – Abraham Linclon.
Animals play an important role in many of the world’s religions. As symbols, animals help us to understand important religious concepts such as purity, sacrifice, morality, and creation. Animals play a crucial role in the integrated health of humans and the planet. But, the shocking number of animal cruelty cases reported every day is just the tip of the iceberg; most cases are never reported.
There can be different types of abuse of animals. On the whole, putting animals in any captive environment is itself a form of mistreatment, which causes them to suffer immensely in cages.
When such animals are locked inside cages or crates, they endure immense suffering, as their movements are severely restricted, and therefore they have no control over their lives. Asa result, they experience extreme stress, exhaustion, and frustration.
When the animal is deprived of its natural habitat, it may not have enough room; it may result in physical health issues, mental disorders, and boredom.
Protection of animals is enshrined as a ‘Fundamental Duty in the Indian Constitution’.
Article 51- A(g) of the Fundamental duty states that ‘It shall be the duty of every citizen of India – to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.’
“Compassion for living creatures- Love all animals and provide them with food so that they would not starve. The environment should be kept clean and should produce the least possible amount of waste”. It is the best form of compassion one can express towards the environment.
There are several legislations in India for the protection of animals:
The Indian Penal Code, 1860: Section 428 provides: Whoever commits mischief by killing, poisoning, maiming, or rendering useless any animal or animals, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with a fine or with both.
The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals Act, 1960:
Section 11 treating animals with cruelty:
Section 11 (a) provides- Beats, kicks, over-rides, over drives, over-loads, tortures or otherwise treats, any animal so as to subject it to unnecessary pain or suffering or causes, or being the owner permits, any animal to be treated so.
Section 11 (e) – Prohibits weeping or confining any animal in any cage or other receptacle which does not measure sufficiently in height, length and breadth to permit the animal a reasonable opportunity for movement.
Section 3 provides that it shall be the duty of every person having care or charge of any animal to take all reasonable measures to ensure the well-being of such animal of unnecessary pain or suffering.
Animals are sensitive to the feelings of pain and injuries just like humans. It is our duty to make sure that all animals are given good care and not to inflict any physical injuries on them. Every animal has its role in serving its part in an ecosystem.
Zoos are frequently criticised for not doing enough to enhance animal welfare.
Zoo animals are sometimes housed in confined spaces with no opportunity to exhibit their natural habits. Therefore, ‘sanctuaries’ can do wonderful things for our wildlife.
Wildlife sanctuaries effectively protect these habitats, allowing animals a safe spot for breeding and comfortable survival. Sanctuaries offer the landscape that wild animals genuinely need. Every human being has a responsibility to protect animals, ensuring animal welfare, proper housing, disease prevention, treatment, humane handling, and responsible care.
It is our duty to save every wild animal that is present in the world, not only to maintain the natural balance but also for our own well-being.
“We can still save them before it is too late. They are waiting for us to work towards protecting them”.
