A dog and a pony rescued from the New Momota Circus and Jadu in Digboi, Assam, have been relocated to a sanctuary after intervention by the Assam Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department. This action followed a complaint from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, which alleged violations of animal welfare laws.
According to officials, the circus had been using animals for performances without the necessary Performing Animals Registration Certificate, which is mandated under the Performing Animals (Registration) Rules, 2001. Acting on PETA’s complaint, the department took action under the guidance of Dr. Jayanta Kumar Goswami, Member Secretary of the State Animal Welfare Board of Assam and Director of the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department.
PETA India reported that the dog had been compelled to jump from heights of 25 to 30 feet into a net during performances, while the pony was allegedly struck and had its mouth forcibly pried open to showcase its teeth to spectators. After their rescue, both animals were moved to a sanctuary, where they are expected to receive proper care and live without the pressure of performing.
Vikram Chandravanshi, Senior Policy and Legal Advisor for PETA India, emphasized that forcing animals to perform dangerous stunts constitutes cruelty rather than entertainment. He noted that alternatives, such as robotic performers, could be considered for such acts.
Chandravanshi commended the Assam authorities for their prompt action in rescuing and rehabilitating the animals. PETA stated that multiple inspections conducted by the Animal Welfare Board of India, along with their own investigations, have consistently indicated that animal circuses are inherently cruel.
Even circuses with valid registration certificates reportedly often keep animals chained or confined in small, barren cages when not performing. These animals are often denied adequate veterinary care, food, water, and shelter, according to the organization. PETA further indicated that many animals are trained through punishment and exhibit repetitive behaviors associated with severe stress.
Reiterating their stance against the use of animals for entertainment, PETA India affirmed that such practices violate fundamental principles of animal welfare and dignity.
Original Source: https://nenews.in/assam/assam-animals-rescued-from-digboi-circus-over-alleged-cruelty-lack-of-permits/38137/
Category: Assam,Animals,Digboi circus,PETA India,Rescue
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Publish Date: 2025-12-22 15:45:00
