The Supreme Court has agreed to review a public interest litigation (PIL) that seeks to stop the practice of animal sacrifice in temples nationwide. Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued notice and asked for responses from the Union Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The petition, filed by advocate Shruti Bist under Article 32 of the Constitution, alleges authorities’ inaction in preventing animal killings in the name of religious rituals.
The PIL argues that ritualistic animal sacrifice goes against the principles of compassion and non-violence in Indian traditions and laws. It mentions historical roots of animal sacrifice during religious ceremonies, especially in worshiping deities like Ma Durga and Ma Kali. Despite India’s cultural emphasis on compassion for animals, the petition highlights ongoing cruelty in various forms, including ritualistic killings during religious events.
Referring to provisions in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to animal cruelty, the petition stresses the need for stricter enforcement to prevent abuse. It also points out that animals endure suffering in different settings such as ritual sacrifices, entertainment, testing, and domestic or farm environments. The plea invokes constitutional principles, citing Article 51A(g) that mandates compassion for all living beings and calls for effective measures to ban animal killings in temples and enforce animal protection laws nationwide.
