Justice with Empathy

PETA India's recent police sensitisation workshop in Gangtok is a crucial intervention in a state that often prides itself on its harmonious relationship with nature. Earlier, a workshop for the members from Non-Governmental Organisations such as People For Animals (PFA) Sikkim, Citizen Animal Shelter, The Guardian, along with animal rescuers, and activists was also held.

This has come at a time when behind the veil of Sikkim’s eco-conscious image, incidents of animal abuse, neglect, and silent suffering go largely unnoticed or unreported. This workshop—conducted by Mr Meet Ashar, head of PETA India's Cruelty Response Division—not only highlighted the grim reality of animal cruelty in India but also challenged law enforcement to treat these offences with the gravity they deserve.

Ashar’s assertion that violence against animals is a precursor to violence against humans is backed by chilling facts. The FBI's classification of animal cruelty as a predictor of future violent crimes underscores the psychological trajectory of many violent offenders. In India, too, infamous criminals like Veerappan and Ameer-ul-Islam began their paths by abusing animals. Yet, such connections are rarely made within our legal and policing frameworks.

Sikkim, despite having state-specific laws like the Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act (2017) and the Livestock Products Control Act (1985, amended in 2017), has lacked systematic enforcement. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972—though outdated in penalties—still provide a robust legal framework, if enforced diligently. Unfortunately, animal-related FIRs are often treated as low-priority, with accused individuals walking free or cases dying in bureaucratic inertia.

The workshop’s emphasis on the Constitutional duty of compassion (Article 51A(g)) and the state's environmental responsibilities (Articles 48 and 48A) should not be viewed as theoretical ideals. They are actionable mandates. Sikkim’s police and judiciary must internalise these values in practice, not just in principle.

It is time we stop treating animal cruelty as a "lesser crime." Sikkim, with its progressive image and ecological sensibilities, must lead by example. The protection of the voiceless should not just be a legal obligation. Justice begins where empathy starts.