Current affairs

Amending prevention of cruelty to animals rule

Part1-
 The supreme court asked the centre to either withdraw
or modify the prevention of cruelty to animals (care and
maintenance of animals) rules 2017 framed under the
prevention of cruelty to animals act 2016.
 A plea from the buffalo traders association challenged
the constitutional validity of the 2017 rules. It is argued
that the rules are too stringent and unfair for animal
traders.
 On the other hand the additional solicitor general
representing the centre defended that the rules were
notified to prevent atrocities on the animals.

Part2- what are these 2017 rules

 Allows arrest on suspicion – 2017 rules enable
authorities to seize cattle on a mere suspicion that they
suffered cruel the treatment at the hands of their
owners or were primed for slaughter.
 After enforcement of these rules the animals were
being confiscated even before their owner was proven
guilty of cruelty.
 Section 29 of PCA act provides for confiscation of those
animals whose owners have been convicted.

Part3- arguments against 2017 rules

 These incidents act as triggers for community
polarization.
  Traders claim that their animals were being seized to be
sent to gaushalas, or offered for adoption.
 This affected income security of the owners as animals
are the source of livelihood for many farmers, livestock
owners or cattle taders.

Part4- prevention of cruelty to animals act 1960

 Purpose – to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain
or suffering of animals.
 Provisions-
A) experiments on animals
B) prohibition of practices which are injurious to the
health of animals.
C) Legal destruction of suffering of animals.
D) Killing of animals in a manner required by religion
of community.
E) Penalties against offences.

Part 5- animal welfare board of india

 it was established in 1962 under section of this
act.
 To promote animal welfare and protecting
animals from being subjected to unnecessary
pain and suffering.
 28 members with three year term
 Head-quarters- Chennai
 Provide grants to animal welfare and advise the
government on animal welfare issues.