EXPERTS AND ACTIVISTS SUPPORT THE GOVERNMENT’S BREED-SPECIFIC DOG BAN IN INDIA.

Why in the news?

Animal rights campaigners and experts support the government’s breed-specific dog ban amid legal challenges in Indian High Courts.

source:scirb

About Government’s Breed-Specific Dog Ban Supported:

  • Six High Courts in India recently addressed the Centre’s circular banning 23 breeds of “ferocious” dogs.
  • Kerala, Madras, Rajasthan, and Calcutta stayed the circular, while Delhi and Karnataka quashed it, urging stakeholder consultation.
  • People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India backed the ban, citing it as a measure against illegal dogfights and attacks.
  • Highlighted the plight of abandoned pit bull-type breeds and overcrowded animal shelters in India.
  • Prominent activists like Gauri Maulekhi and Varda Mehrotra supported the ban but emphasised practical implementation.
  • Opponents argued the ban lacked scientific basis and comprehensive methodology, posing challenges in enforcement and dealing with mixed-breed dogs.
About People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA):

  • Founded: January 2000, based in Mumbai.
  • Principle: Oppose animal use for food, fashion, experiments, and entertainment.
  • Focus areas: Food, leather, laboratories, and entertainment industries.
  • Achievements: Numerous improvements in animal welfare and saved lives.
  • Elephant ban campaign: Successfully barred elephants from entering cities in 2007.
  • Animal rescues: Exposed cruel conditions in laboratories and rescued circus animals.
  • Petition drive: Teamed up with Bollywood stars to halt bullocks from pulling oil tankers in Mumbai.

Mission:

  • Raise awareness on animal cruelty.
  • Educate policymakers and the public.
  • Promote respect for all animals.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centres-move-to-ban-ferocious-dogs-commendable-say-animal-rights-groups-experts/article68087999.ece#:~:text=And%20if%20you%20are%20cruel,conditions%20is%20a%20commendable%20step%E2%80%9D.