Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar Cops to deal the animal cruelty cases strictly

All police stations coming under the jurisdictions of the Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar (MBVV) have been issued orders to handle cases of animal cruelty in a sensitive and sympathetic manner. This apart from ensuring that all relevant sections are added to the FIR so that the accused gets the strictest punishment.

A circular to this effect was recently issued to station-in-charge of all police stations by DCP (Crime) Vijaykant Sagar, which clearly stated that lack of seriousness and awareness has been observed in some cases on part of personnel when people approach with complaints related to cruelty against animals.

In response to her intervention sought by animal rights activist and MNS leader Sachin Jhamble, former union minister Maneka Gandhi recently spoke to the MBVV police top brass in regards to the issue.

The circular further said that in wake of complaints, the on-duty personnel under the supervision of the senior police inspector should immediately register a first information report (FIR) and apply necessary sections of the Indian Penal Code, Maharashtra Police Act, 1951 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Also, the police personnel have been directed to invoke sections under the Arms Act and WildLife (Protection) Act if necessary.

As cases of cruelty to animals continue to rise, while getting more grim in nature, animal rights activists have welcomed the move, hoping for a more positive and serious approach by the police. Meanwhile, the volunteers from the NGO People for Animals and the local MNS wing have also requested the police administration to install display boards carrying information about legal provisions in cases of cruelty against animals.