Target: Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel, Gujarat, India
Goal: Ensure the immediate and strict enforcement of a ban on the use of glue traps for catching rodents, in compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
The Gujarat High Court has recently expressed strong disapproval of the Gujarat State Animal Welfare Board’s failure to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the associated Rules, 2001. The court highlighted the ineffective implementation of rules, particularly concerning the use of glue traps and glue boards for catching rodents. Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranav Trivedi emphasized the necessity of establishing District Level Societies to ensure the implementation of the Act’s provisions, which appears to be lacking.
The court took serious exception to statements made by the Joint Director (Animal Husbandry) suggesting that prohibiting glue traps required central government intervention, showing a lack of understanding of state responsibilities under the Act. The court directed the Member Secretary of the Gujarat State Animal Welfare Board to file a personal affidavit addressing these concerns and ensuring compliance with the Act and its rules.
This follows a Public Interest Litigation regarding the non-implementation of a circular issued by the Gujarat State Animal Welfare Board, urging the cessation of glue trap usage due to the unnecessary pain and suffering caused to animals. Enforce these vital animal protection measures effectively.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear CM Patel,
I am writing to express my urgent concern regarding the Gujarat State Animal Welfare Board’s failure to effectively enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the associated Rules, 2001, as highlighted by the Gujarat High Court. The use of glue traps for catching rodents is particularly troubling, as these devices cause immense and unnecessary suffering to animals.
The court’s observations underscore a significant lapse in the implementation of these critical animal protection laws. The persistent use of glue traps, despite clear directives to cease their usage, demonstrates a severe neglect of responsibility and a lack of adherence to the Act.
I urge you to take immediate action to ensure the strict enforcement of a ban on glue traps for catching rodents. Establish the required District Level Societies and ensure full compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act to prevent further unnecessary suffering of animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Shashank-Kumawat
