The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) has addressed the Home Affairs Committee, expressing apprehension about the absence of provisions pertaining to sexual violence against animals in the proposed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The animal rights organization highlighted that the current Indian Penal Code’s (IPC) Section 377 offers protection for animals from sexual violence.
In a letter penned on September 14, Peta emphasized, “At present, there is no provision in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, that provides animals the same protection.” This concern was articulated in the wake of the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision to uphold protection for animals, children, and others within the Section 377 framework.
Peta’s communication with the Home Affairs Committee also included recommendations for enhancing the scope of Clause 323 in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, by precisely defining “maiming” or “rendering useless any animal” to ensure comprehensive implementation of the provision. Additionally, the organization proposed the reinforcement of penalties for these crimes to safeguard both human and non-human citizens of Bharat.
While commending the Ministry of Home Affairs for eliminating the practice of determining an animal’s worthiness of protection based on its monetary value, Peta expressed hope for the enactment of robust measures to safeguard the welfare of animals under the new legislation. The organization emphasized that safeguarding animals is not only a societal responsibility but also a moral obligation incumbent upon the nation.
Citing data from the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO), Peta highlighted that nearly half a million animals, including cows, dogs, and wildlife, fell victim to various crimes, including sexual violence, over the past decade. The Voice of Stray Dogs (VOSD) report underscored the prevalence of sexual abuse against animals, equating its occurrence rate with that of human rape cases, accounting for underreporting of such crimes.
As the discussions around the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, continue, the inclusion of comprehensive measures to protect animals remains a focal point in ensuring their welfare and safety.
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2023-10-16 09:36:49.0
Peta Advocates For Animal Rights In Absence Of Sexual Violence Provisions In Reformed IPC
