Bombay High Court Rules Animals Have Sentiments and Emotions, Just Like Humans 

In a landmark decision, the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court recently declared that animals possess sentiments and emotions akin to humans. The ruling, in the case of Ansar Ahmad Qureshi & Ors. v. State of Maharashtra & Anr., emphasizes that animals, despite their inability to verbally communicate or assert their rights, deserve to be treated with compassion and respect.

Justice GA Sanap, presiding over the case, opined that while animals cannot articulate their rights, it does not diminish their feelings, emotions, or sensations. He underscored the importance of responsible parties safeguarding the rights, welfare, and protection of animals in accordance with the law. He urged that cases involving animal cruelty be handled with sensitivity.

The case at hand involved a petition for the custody of 39 cattle. The petitioners claimed they held a valid license for the sale and purchase of these animals. However, the cattle had been confiscated following allegations of illegal and cruel transportation. It was found that the number of animals transported exceeded both the permissible limit under the Transport of Animal Rules of 1978 and the vehicle’s capacity.

Further scrutiny revealed distressing conditions during the transportation, particularly for buffaloes in labor. Despite their role in these circumstances, the proprietors had not been identified as suspects. This pointed towards a gaping hole in the effective execution of Animal rights legislation.

Justice Sanap referenced a previous Supreme Court ruling that deemed it inappropriate to transfer animal custody back to the owners amidst charges of animal abuse. Hence, the High Court denied the petitioners’ custody of the animals. Instead, a registered gaushala, Maa Foundation, was instructed to care for the animals until the dispute resolution.

To ensure the wellbeing of the animals, the Court directed the appropriate police station officer to visit the Gaushala bi-monthly with a veterinary officer, reporting these visits to the relevant Magistrate.

This ruling by the Bombay High Court brings to light the urgent need for empathy towards animals and the implementation of robust Animal rights. But this is just the beginning, and it’s time we all play our part.

Ahisma Sweatshirt By Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection

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