An Analytical Study On Animal Rights In India

Nandini Shetty & Gajjala Ramesh Bhavani, B.A. LL.B., Alliance School of Law, Alliance University

ABSTRACT

Since the history of India, animals have been considered important and have even been regarded as deities. Animals play a great role in being a part of this world, their contribution to the environment is important. Animals are also social creatures like humans. They deserve to live, to enjoy their lives in the best possible manner. Their protection is important as they cannot fight for their rights like humans. India, is the 7th largest country in the world with so much biodiversity. India is home to a vast species of animals. So, cruelty to animals or abuse of animals are violent acts. No human has the right to harm their lives just to take benefit for their own selfish purpose. As the cases of cruelty towards animals is increasing day by day, legislations like Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 were enforced but they are not acting effectively and new measures need to be taken for their safety and well-being. Various constitutional provisions like Article 48A which talks about protection and improvement of environment and Article 51A (g) states that it is the duty of every citizen to protect and improve the environment, try to help in aiding animals for their well-being. Hence, the social awareness should also increase and we ought to protect and be kind to animals. At least if not being kind, then also not causing them any harm.

Keywords: Cruelty, environment, animals, bio-diversity, protection.