A Law That Speaks for the Voiceless
Enacted in 1960, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act remains one of India's foundational animal welfare laws. It lays down what qualifies as cruelty — from beating or torturing animals to overloading working animals or denying food and water.
What Constitutes Cruelty?
- Beating or kicking an animal
- Keeping animals in cages with inadequate space
- Overworking sick or old animals
- Poisoning street animals
- Abandoning pets or animals
“Every act of cruelty, no matter how small, chips away at our humanity.”
Penalties
- Fines starting from ₹10 to ₹100 (though considered outdated today)
- Imprisonment up to 3 months for repeat offenses
- Prosecution under IPC sections for severe cases
How You Can Help
- Report cruelty to the local police or animal welfare officer
- Document evidence — videos/photos are powerful
- Support NGOs filing PILs to push for stronger enforcement and updates to this old act
This law may be over 60 years old, but it’s the first legal voice for India’s animals — and it’s still fighting.