Animal board disallows use of elephants in circuses

MUMBAI: Following a ninemonth-long investigation authorized by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) of circuses across the nation, the AWBI has decided to stop registration of elephants for performances under the Performing Animals Rules in view of the cruelty and abuse suffered by the animals.

The investigation was conducted by a team including representatives from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India and and an NGO, Animal Rahat.

In addition to its support for a ban on the use of animals in circuses, the AWBI has also decided to put a stop on the use of injured and aged animals at such performances. It added that legal notices will be served to circuses that use sick, injured and unregistered animals.

PETA India’s findings will be forwarded to the Central Zoo Authority for further action.

“The findings from our investigations reveal that cruelty to animals is inherent in the circus business, a conclusion that has already led many countries to ban the use of all animals in circuses,” said Dr Manilal Valliyate, director of veterinary affairs at PETA I The investigation was conducted from November 2012 to July 2013. Findings from the probe include documentation of apparent violations of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCA), 1960, Performing Animals Rules and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.