Target: Assistant Police Inspector Pravin Kamble, Sangli Police, Maharashtra, India
Goal: Pursue maximum penalties and a district-wide ban after an alleged illegal greyhound race went ahead despite a police notice, putting dogs at grave risk.
A greyhound race was allegedly staged in Kavathe Mahankal even after police served a prohibition notice. An FIR has now been registered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Forcing dogs to race at dangerous speeds is linked to injuries, collapses and deaths, and dogs are often confined in punishing conditions when not used. Proceeding in apparent defiance of police direction makes this case especially alarming.
According to advocacy materials, such spectacles prioritise gambling and notoriety over welfare. The Performing Animals (Registration) Rules, 2001 require prior AWBI registration, which backyard organisers often ignore. The Supreme Court’s 2014 A. Nagaraja judgment recognised that staged animal “fights” and comparable contests must end, a principle critics say extends to dog racing that compels animals into harm. Reports further allege that greyhounds are kenneled for long hours, then pushed to run at speeds that risk torn muscles, heat stress and trauma.
Deterrence matters. Without visible consequences, copycat races can spread. This petition urges robust prosecution that seeks the highest lawful penalties, court-ordered bans on keeping or handling animals for convicted offenders, and restitution for veterinary care. It also calls for a standing district order that prohibits animal races, proactive AWBI-permit checks, seizure of equipment tied to illegal events, and coordinated monitoring to prevent future offences.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Assistant Police Inspector Kamble,
We appreciate that an FIR has been registered after an alleged illegal greyhound race went ahead in Kavathe Mahankal despite a police notice to prevent it. The allegations describe dogs compelled to run at dangerous speeds and organisers proceeding in apparent defiance of lawful direction. Such conduct endangers animals and erodes respect for the rule of law.
We respectfully ask your office to pursue the maximum penalties available under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and to request court-ordered prohibitions on animal ownership or control for any convicted offenders. Please also seek restitution for veterinary and shelter costs, and strict bail conditions that bar contact with animals during trial.
We further urge coordinated prevention: a district-wide prohibition on animal races, systematic AWBI registration checks, targeted surveillance of suspected venues, and swift seizure of equipment linked to alleged offences. Visible enforcement will protect dogs and deter future violations.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: christina
