Shahin Bepari Lambe
Panaji: The District Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), North Goa, has issued cautionary letters to around 30 to 40 housing societies in North Goa where residents who are dog lovers are facing harassment in violation of animal welfare laws. The DSPCA has shared rules of co-existence as mandated under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCA) Act, 1960, and the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, and urged residents to adopt peaceful coexistence practices.
“The Supreme Court has stated that animals are entitled to Five Freedoms— freedom from hunger and thirst, fear and distress, physical and thermal discomfort, pain and injury, and the freedom to express normal behaviour. These rights are enforceable under Sections 3 and 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960,” executive secretary Dexter Braganza said, adding that the responsibility to uphold these freedoms lies with the central and state governments, Union territories, ministry of environment and forests (MoEF), and the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI).
Braganza said that many society officials are unaware of legal protections for street animals, which is leading to conflicts and instances of cruelty.
“We’ve been conducting awareness programmes to educate management committees and feeders,” he said.
Braganza said the DSPCA intervenes in disputes over feeding areas and also coordinates with the police when necessary to ensure compliance with animal protection laws.
“Feeding of street community animals is not optional or unlawful but an obligation under Article 51A(g) of the Indian Constitution,” states the letter issued by the DSPCA to housing societies.
The letter warns that anyone harassing or restraining of feeder from performing this service on behalf of the community might make themselves open to prosecution under BNS 351 (criminal intimidation) attracting a two-year jail term or fine or both.
In serious cases, the law provides for a punishment of seven-year jail term/fine.
In fact, Braganza said aggressive behaviour in animals is usually due to fear or hunger.
“Regular feeding calms animals and facilitates their capture for sterilisation under the ABC programme,” he added. “Well-fed animals tend to sleep more, reducing conflicts.”
He cited an instance where a society approached the magistrate with complaints about dogs, including pets, and feeders. After the DSPCA presented legal provisions and Supreme Court rulings, the magistrate directed the creation of designated feeding spots.
Braganza said the DSPCA continues to receive reports of severe cruelty, including animals being denied shelter during rains, abandonment of puppies, and incidents of poisoning or violence.
“We urge all residents to follow the AWBI and Supreme Court guidelines. Awareness is key to ensuring compassion and safety for both animals and people,” he said.
