Featured Articles – People For Animals

The Tihar gaushala: Small facility, big questions

November 30, 2025

The Tihar Gaushala, a small facility housing 20 cattle, raises questions about its effectiveness in addressing Delhi's persistent stray cattle crisis, which has spanned over two decades. The article questions whether tokenism and symbolism, like this small facility, are more dangerous than inaction when they hide decades of systemic neglect. It also suggests that staffing prisons with mental health professionals would be more effective for inmate outcomes than equating cow interactions with therapeutic interventions.

Read Full Article →

Register in a month or shut shops: Delhi animal board’s ultimatum to pet stores

November 9, 2024

All pet shops and dog breeding centers in the national capital must register with the Delhi Animal Welfare Board within one month or face closure. Failure to comply will result in the shutdown of non-registered establishments, as per rules outlined in the Dog Breeding and Marketing Rules, 2017, and the Pet Shop Rules, 2018. This move aims to bolster animal welfare and ensure compliance with legal standards, addressing concerns about stressful and unsafe environments often found when different breeds are crammed together.

Read Full Article →

Pets shop, dog breeding centres in Delhi to face closure if they fail to register with Animal Board within a month

November 9, 2024

Pets shops and dog breeding centers in Delhi are facing potential closure if they do not register with the Animal Board within one month. This mandatory registration is being enforced to ensure proper standards and oversight for these businesses. Owners are strongly urged to take immediate action to register their businesses and comply with the new regulations to avoid legal repercussions and cessation of operations.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC asks govt to decide on Gaushala at Ghogha dairy

November 2, 2024

The Delhi high court has directed the Delhi government and its chief secretary to make a decision on establishing a Gaushala (cow shelter) at Ghogha dairy in northwest Delhi. This shelter is intended for relocating animals currently housed in the Bhalswa and Ghazipur dairy colonies. This move aims to address the issue of stray or improperly housed cattle in the city.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC Expresses Concern Over Poor Milk Quality

August 29, 2024

The Delhi High Court has expressed serious concern over the poor quality of milk in the city, emphasizing that people must have access to good quality milk. The court underlined that milch cattle cannot be allowed to graze on toxic waste, such as sanitary landfills. This concern is part of an effort to ensure that healthy milk is available and to prevent the next generation from suffering from diseases. The High Court also stressed the need for the relocation of dairies.

Read Full Article →

We Are Only Concerned About Animal Cruelty And Quality Of Milk Being Circulated: Delhi HC In Dairy Colonies Case

August 28, 2024

In a recent hearing concerning animal cruelty in dairy colonies, the Delhi High Court emphasized that its main concern is ensuring quality milk is circulated and addressing animal cruelty. The court clarified that the decision regarding the removal of residents lies with the MCD. Residents are reportedly scared to shift and want to retain their land, fearing demolition if they surrender their livestock. The court issued directions to address the issues within these dairy colonies.

Read Full Article →

Relocation of dairy colony: Delhi HC directs police to provide protection to animal activist

August 26, 2024

The Delhi High Court has directed police to provide protection to animal rights activist Sunayana Sibal, who petitioned for the relocation of dairies from Bhalswa to Ghogha Dairy Colony. The court's action was in response to concerns about the health risks associated with milch cattle feeding on garbage from landfills, and the environmental pollution and public nuisance caused by poor waste disposal practices in the dairy colony. Following the order, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) issued notices to dairy owners to vacate the encroached premises.

Read Full Article →

Will halt demolition of illegal structures in Bhalswa Dairy colony until Aug 16, MCD assures Delhi HC

August 13, 2024

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has temporarily halted its demolition drive at Bhalswa Dairy Colony in North West Delhi. The decision came after thousands of local residents resisted the arrival of bulldozers. The MCD assured the High Court that the demolition would not be carried out until August 16, postponing the drive until further notice.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC to pass orders on shifting dairy from Bhalswa to Ghoga

July 20, 2024

The Delhi High Court is set to pass orders concerning the relocation of the Bhalswa dairy to Ghoga. This move has been a subject of discussion, with some authorities, including the government, urging for leniency. The government has recommended that local authorities allow small-scale, non-polluting activities by dairy farmers. This entire situation is part of a larger directive aimed at moving the dairies.

Read Full Article →

Fate of hundreds of dairy farms in Delhi hangs in balance as court weighs health concerns

June 24, 2024

The future of hundreds of dairy farms in Ghazipur and Bhalswa is uncertain as the Delhi High Court examines their compliance with legal and environmental standards. The Delhi government and Municipal Corporation of Delhi have requested time until June 30 to regularize the dairies. This situation highlights the tension between urban growth and the established locations of these dairy colonies, which were once on the city's outskirts. The court will hear the case again on July 12.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC flags state’s ‘lack of will’ to curb ‘rampant violation of laws’ in dairy colonies

June 11, 2024

The Delhi High Court has criticized the state for its "lack of will" to address the "rampant violation of laws" occurring within dairy colonies. This concern highlights significant issues related to unauthorized practices and the need for stricter enforcement of regulations. The court's statement underscores the seriousness of the situation in these areas.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC flags state’s ‘lack of will’ to curb ‘rampant violation of laws’ in dairy colonies

June 10, 2024

The Kedarnath pilgrimage, while a spiritual journey for many, is causing significant harm to the mules used for transport. With 8,000 overworked animals and only one medical shelter available, many suffer serious injuries. The official death toll has been high, with 200 mules dying in 2022 and 115 in 2023, raising serious concerns about animal welfare and the current management system.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC pulls up Animal Husbandry Unit over violations in dairy colonies

June 8, 2024

The Delhi High Court recently pulled up the Animal Husbandry Unit over rampant violations in dairy colonies, noting that these issues affect public health due to the milk being produced and involve extreme cruelty to the animals housed there. A Court Commissioner previously tasked with inspecting nine dairy colonies in the Capital had found that several norms were being violated. The court has listed the case for further hearing in July and has made several organizations party to the case.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC criticises state functionaries for rampant dairy law violations

June 7, 2024

The Delhi High Court criticized state functionaries for rampant violations in dairy colonies, noting that these issues affect public health for residents consuming the milk and involve extreme cruelty to the animals housed there. The court flagged the state's "lack of will" to curb the widespread violation of laws. The criticism was made in a May 27 order.

Read Full Article →

Delhi High Court Criticizes Officials Over Dairy Norm Violations

May 27, 2024

The Delhi High Court recently criticized government officials for failing to enforce regulations regarding cattle dairies, highlighting the serious environmental and public health hazards caused by the poor state of health and hygiene in these facilities. The court expressed strong disapproval, noting the officials' disregard for dairy maintenance and their focus solely on property interests. This decision underscores the judiciary's commitment to prioritizing citizens' health and addressing the issue of illegal dairies and related violations like the spurious use of Oxytocin.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC Orders Action Against Spurious Oxytocin Use In Dairy Colonies, Directs Police Investigation

May 15, 2024

The Delhi High Court has directed authorities to take action against the spurious use of oxytocin in dairy colonies, calling the administration of the hormone to cattle an act of animal cruelty and a punishable offense. The court has ordered a police investigation into the matter. This ruling aims to curb the illegal practice, which has raised concerns about animal welfare and public health.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC Orders Relocation of Dairies Near Landfills Over Hazardous Milk Risks

May 15, 2024

The Delhi High Court has issued directions for the relocation of dairies, stating that cattle next to landfills feed on hazardous waste. The court warned that the milk from these cattle would have serious consequences for humans who consume it. The move aims to protect public health from contaminated dairy products.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC Orders Action Against Spurious Oxytocin Use In Dairy Colonies, Directs Police Investigation

May 15, 2024

The Delhi High Court has directed state authorities to take action against the widespread, spurious use of oxytocin on cattle in dairy colonies across the Capital. The court specifically noted the "rampant use" of oxytocin to force milk let-down and increase milk production. As a result, the court directed the Commissioner (MCD), Director of Veterinary (MCD), Chief Secretary (GNCTD), CEO (DUSIB), and CEO (FSSAI) to join proceedings for the next hearing. The court also suggested that dairies should be relocated to areas with proper amenities, including sewage, drainage, a biogas plant, and ample open and grazing space for the cattle.

Read Full Article →

Health Crisis Averted: Delhi HC Mandates Dairy Relocation Away from Landfill Sites

May 15, 2024

Read Full Article →

Dairies near landfills a serious threat to public health; relocate them: Delhi High Court

May 14, 2024

The Delhi High Court has expressed serious concern regarding dairy owners and cattle living near landfill sites, emphasizing the threat to public health from consuming milk from cattle that may be feeding on hazardous waste. The court is seeking to ensure healthy milk availability in Delhi and directed authorities to create a roadmap for the relocation of these dairies. The magnitude of the problem has been attributed to the failure of concerned authorities to take timely action.

Read Full Article →

Govt ‘Turning A Blind Eye’ To Health Of Residents: Delhi HC In Animal Cruelty In Dairy Colonies Case

May 14, 2024

The Delhi High Court recently criticized the government for "turning a blind eye" to the health of residents due to animal cruelty and violations in dairy colonies. The court noted that these violations negatively affect public health through the milk produced and involve "extreme cruelty" to the animals housed there. In response, the Chief Secretary was ordered to submit a detailed affidavit outlining the future roadmap for the nine dairy colonies. The case was subsequently listed for May 27, 2024.

Read Full Article →

Delhi High Court Issues Directions To Maintain Hygiene In Dairies, Medical Care Of Cattle

May 14, 2024

The Delhi High Court has issued directions requiring the maintenance of hygiene in dairies and medical care for cattle. The court expressed concern that cattle in dairies near landfills are feeding on hazardous waste, which could have serious consequences for human consumers of the milk. The court is pushing for the relocation of these dairies to ensure the availability of healthy milk and to prevent public health issues.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC directs Chief Secretary to file future roadmap of 9 dairy colonies, issues directions for medical care of cattles

May 14, 2024

The Delhi High Court has directed the Chief Secretary to file a future roadmap regarding nine dairy colonies and has issued directions for the medical care of the cattle. This action follows concerns about the conditions in these colonies. The court is focused on ensuring healthy milk production and the welfare of both the dairy owners and their animals, particularly those living near landfill sites.

Read Full Article →

Animal cruelty: Delhi HC comes down on spurious oxytocin use in dairies

May 4, 2024

The Delhi High Court has strongly condemned the use of spurious oxytocin in dairies, recognizing it as a form of animal cruelty. The court highlighted the dangerous health implications for both the animals and the consumers of the milk. This ruling underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement against illegal practices in the dairy industry to ensure public health and animal welfare.

Read Full Article →

Delhi High Court Orders Crackdown on Spurious Oxytocin in Capital’s Dairy Colonies

May 4, 2024

The Delhi High Court directed state authorities to act against the unauthorized use of oxytocin on cattle in Delhi’s dairy areas. This practice boosts milk production but constitutes animal cruelty. The order stems from a petition in the case Sunayana Sibal & Ors vs Govt of NCT of Delhi, dated May 1, 2024 .

Read Full Article →

Urgent Need To Relocate Ghazipur, Bhalswa Dairies From Sanitary Landfill Sites: Delhi HC

May 3, 2024

The Delhi High Court has emphasized the urgent need to relocate the Ghazipur and Bhalswa dairies away from sanitary landfill sites due to the public health hazards they pose. This directive comes amid concerns about milch cattle feeding on garbage near the landfills. The court noted the authorities' inability to stop this practice, leading to the decision to relocate the Bhalswa dairy to Ghogha colony.

Read Full Article →

HC directs action against use of oxytocin in dairies

May 3, 2024

The Delhi High Court has directed authorities to take action against the widespread, spurious use of oxytocin on cattle in city dairies. This drug is often used to force milk let-down and increase production, despite the court commissioner flagging its "rampant use." The court also suggested that dairies should be relocated to areas with proper sewage, drainage, a biogas plant, and ample open and grazing space for the cattle.

Read Full Article →

Poor regulation of aquaculture endangers human health

March 4, 2024

Poor regulation and inadequate enforcement of aquaculture standards pose significant risks to human health globally. These issues stem from a lack of oversight on the quality of feed, use of antibiotics and chemicals, and management of effluent, all of which can lead to contamination of seafood. This situation demands urgent attention from regulatory bodies to implement stricter guidelines and ensure the safety of farmed aquatic products.

Read Full Article →

Delhi’s govt vet hospitals are broken. Private care for the rich pets

November 13, 2023

Delhi's government veterinary hospitals are facing severe issues, with a recent report outlining a grim scenario: four hospitals and six dispensaries are defunct, and none of the 67 operational facilities offer inpatient services. This breakdown of public care forces pet owners, especially those with limited means, to rely on expensive private clinics. The situation is further complicated by budget issues and vets trained for large animals being forced to treat smaller pets without proper expertise or animal-specific medicines.

Read Full Article →

NGO coalition seeks an end to use of battery cages in poultry sector

October 26, 2023

A coalition of non-governmental organizations is urging the Indian government to ban the use of battery cages in the poultry sector, citing extreme cruelty to hens. These cages severely restrict the natural movement of birds, leading to health issues and significant animal suffering. The NGOs argue that transitioning to cage-free systems is essential for animal welfare and a more ethical agricultural practice. They are pushing for urgent legislative changes to address this widespread issue in commercial egg production.

Read Full Article →

Stringent rules for pet shops, but yet to be enforced in Delhi

September 17, 2023

New, stringent rules for pet shops in Delhi, drafted in line with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, are awaiting enforcement despite being formulated over two years ago. These regulations mandate minimum cage sizes, veterinary care, and other welfare measures to prevent abuse and overcrowding. Activists and concerned citizens are urging the authorities to expedite the enforcement of these rules to ensure better treatment and conditions for animals sold in pet shops across the city. The delay means that many pet shops continue to operate without adequate oversight, leading to concerns about animal welfare.

Read Full Article →

Animal rights activists condemn illegitimate removal of sterilized dogs before G20 Summits in India

September 2, 2023

Animal rights activists in Pune are criticizing the alleged illegal removal of sterilized community dogs ahead of the G20 Summits in India. They claim that sterilized and vaccinated dogs were removed without following due procedure, which is prohibited under the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2023. Activists emphasize that street dogs should be relocated only temporarily and returned to the location they were picked up from after events are concluded. This action has raised concerns about the welfare of the animals and adherence to animal control regulations.

Read Full Article →

High Court grants 4 week’s time to Delhi Govt to file reply in plea highlighting ‘Abysmal State’ of govt veterinary hospitals

May 2, 2023

The Delhi High Court has granted the Delhi Government four weeks to file a reply in a plea highlighting the "abysmal state" of government veterinary hospitals. The petitioners are seeking direction to the government to address the critical lack of infrastructure at these facilities. This issue was noted as important by the court, which issued notice to the Delhi government in November 2022. The case is titled: Asher Jesudoss & Ors. Vs. Government of NCT of Delhi.

Read Full Article →

High Court grants 4 week’s time to Delhi Govt to file reply in plea highlighting ‘Abysmal State’ of govt veterinary hospitals

May 2, 2023

The Delhi High Court has granted the Delhi Government four weeks to file a reply in a plea concerning the "abysmal state" of government veterinary hospitals. The petition highlighted the poor conditions and services offered at these facilities. This legal action aims to address the uniformity, equality, and access issues in animal healthcare across the region.

Read Full Article →

Delhi HC appoints court commissioner for inspecting dairy colonies

March 27, 2023

The Delhi High Court has appointed a court commissioner to inspect dairy colonies, acting on concerns about the conditions where over one lakh milch cattle are used for commercial milk production. Earlier inspections, ordered by the High Court, revealed shocking hygiene failings, including milk containers kept open and exposed to flies. This move aims to ascertain the current state of these designated dairy colonies and address the significant public health issues raised in the petition.

Read Full Article →

A year later, Delhi court orders FIR against policeman for assaulting street dog

March 17, 2023

A Delhi court recently ordered the registration of an FIR against a policeman for allegedly assaulting a street dog a year ago. The court noted that while the incident occurred in 2022, the police failed to take action despite the complainant providing relevant videos. The order underscores the legal seriousness of animal cruelty and holds those in uniform accountable for their actions. This decision comes as a significant step in upholding animal rights.

Read Full Article →

Joshimath crisis: Pets and cattle displaced as owners navigate subsidence fallout

February 21, 2023

In Joshimath, land subsidence since early January has displaced families, pets, and cattle, with some animals left behind in damaged homes amid snow and cold weather. Animal rights groups like People for Animals Uttarakhand and Humane Society International/India are surveying affected areas, identifying about 200 dogs, 300 cattle, and 20 equines, while providing feed, shelters, and medical aid; no pets were found fully abandoned as owners relocate them where possible. Local authorities and NGOs are coordinating sterilisations, fodder distribution, and helplines to ensure animal welfare during the crisis.

Read Full Article →

Delhi court orders FIR against police personnel for allegedly assaulting street dog, says inquiry appears “not fair”

February 16, 2023

A Delhi court has ordered the registration of an FIR against police personnel for allegedly assaulting a street dog, noting that the inquiry conducted into the matter appeared "not fair." The court stated that the police failed to adequately address the injuries sustained by the dog, which was subsequently found dead. This ruling highlights the court's stance on animal cruelty and emphasizes the need for transparent investigations, especially concerning police conduct. The order serves as a stern reminder that animal welfare laws must be upheld.

Read Full Article →

Court Orders Registration Of FIR Against Delhi Police Cop For Allegedly Assaulting Street Dog With Lathi, Picks Holes In Official Inquiry

February 16, 2023

Delhi court ordered the registration of an FIR against a Delhi Police officer accused of assaulting a street dog with a lathi during patrolling in Jafrabad, criticizing the police’s internal inquiry as improper and biased. The court, led by Metropolitan Magistrate Bharat Aggarwal, noted that a viral video showed the officer striking the defenseless dog, contradicting police claims of self-defense after a bite, and stressed that such “inquiries” bypass CrPC procedures for FIRs and proper investigations. It directed an impartial probe by an independent unit, including witness statements and video verification, to prevent evidence tampering and uphold justice.

Read Full Article →

HC seeks Delhi govt stand on plea alleging abysmal state of veterinary hospitals

November 14, 2022

The Delhi High Court is seeking a response from the Delhi Government regarding a plea that highlights the "abysmal state" of government-run veterinary hospitals. The plea argues that these hospitals lack basic infrastructure. The court noted the importance of the issue and had previously issued a notice to the Delhi government in November 2022. The case is titled Asher Jesudoss & Ors. Vs. Government of NCT of Delhi.

Read Full Article →

“Reason for People Turning Vegan”: Delhi HC Issues Notice in Plea Against Dairy Colonies Over Alleged Cruelty to Animals

September 13, 2022

The Delhi High Court has issued a notice in a plea filed against dairy colonies regarding alleged cruelty to animals, noting the issue as a "reason for people turning vegan." The plea seeks direction to regulate the designated dairy colonies to ensure compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals Act, 1960. Allegations include various transgressions and non-compliance with applicable laws noted during personal visits to 9 dairy colonies in Delhi. The court noted that these violations not only affect public health but also involve extreme cruelty to the animals housed there.

Read Full Article →

Delhi: High Court Issues Notice On Plea Seeking Regulation Of Dairy Colonies

September 9, 2022

The Delhi High Court has issued notice on a plea seeking the regulation of dairy colonies. Petitioners argue that despite being aware of the blatant legal violations and unregulated dairy colonies, State Authorities have repeatedly failed to act. This failure has compromised animal welfare and resulted in revenue loss for the State Government.

Read Full Article →

DM Directs Officials to Curb Animal Cruelty in Dehradun

June 24, 2022

Dehradun's District Magistrate has directed officials to actively monitor and address cases of animal cruelty in the region. This directive aims to ensure the welfare and safety of animals across the district. Such action underscores the local administration's commitment to enforcing animal protection laws and holding offenders accountable.

Read Full Article →

5 dairy owners in Palanpur booked for using oxytocin on buffaloes

June 15, 2022

Five dairy owners in Palanpur have been booked for illegally administering oxytocin to buffaloes. Oxytocin is a hormone sometimes used by dairy farmers to stimulate milk letdown and increase yield, a common practice in parts of India despite regulations. However, its misuse can pose health risks to both animals and humans. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of illegal practices in the dairy industry.

Read Full Article →

महाराजगंज के एडीएम की पत्नी सुरभि त्रिपाठी ने 1100 KM दूर राजस्थान में लिखवाई FIR, जानिए पूरा मामला

April 16, 2022

उत्तर प्रदेश के महराजगंज जिले के एडीएम पंकज वर्मा की पत्नी सुरभि त्रिपाठी ने राजस्थान के अजमेर में सोशल मीडिया पर वायरल हुए एक वीडियो के आधार पर 1100 किलोमीटर दूर अजमेर पुलिस में पशु क्रूरता का मुकदमा दर्ज कराया। वीडियो में तीन युवकों को एक कुत्ते को स्कूटी से बांधकर घसीटते और मारते हुए दिखाया गया था। सुरभि, जो पीपल फॉर एनिमल संस्था से जुड़ी हैं, ने स्कूटी की नंबर प्लेट के जरिए पुलिस का ध्यान इस घटना की ओर खींचा और पुलिस ने जल्द ही तीनों युवकों को गिरफ्तार कर जांच शुरू कर दी। सुरभि त्रिपाठी ने इस मामले में पुलिस की तत्परता की सराहना की और बताया कि वे महराजगंज में करीब दो दर्जन घायल और बीमार पशुओं की देखभाल करती हैं। वे नियमित पशु चिकित्सक को बुलाती हैं और पहले भी पशु हिंसा के मामलों में सख्त कदम उठाए हैं। सुरभि सभी से पशुओं के प्रति दया दिखाने और हिंसा रोकने की अपील करती हैं।

Read Full Article →

जानवरों पर होने वाली हिसा के खिलाफ मुखर हैं सुरभि त्रिपाठी

April 15, 2022

Surbhi Tripathi is an advocate against violence toward animals, and she is currently caring for and treating about 25 injured animals, including dogs, goats, sheep, and monkeys, at her residence located in the Collectorate complex. Some of these animals are also suffering from various diseases. Tripathi is committed to ensuring they receive the best possible treatment.

Read Full Article →

Activists call for end to use of battery cages to house egg-laying hens, point out it amounts to cruelty

April 11, 2022

Activists are calling for an end to the use of battery cages for egg-laying hens, pointing out that this confinement amounts to cruelty. Hens in battery cages are often unable to perform natural behaviors such as nesting, preening, and spreading their wings due to the extremely small space they are allotted. The conditions lead to high levels of stress and frustration for the birds.

Read Full Article →

Bengaluru dairy units in abysmal state

December 10, 2021

A study conducted by the Ahimsa Fellowship researchers on seven dairy units in Bengaluru. The study found serious violations in animal welfare, hygiene, and legal compliance across all visited dairies. Key issues included overcrowding of animals tied with short ropes restricting natural movement, cows suffering from painful conditions like mastitis due to excessive milking, and poor sanitation such as milking in polluted buckets and presence of dung and urine near milking areas.

Read Full Article →

Dairies across Delhi flout rules, flag activists

September 13, 2021

Activists are raising concerns that dairies across Delhi are flouting rules, despite the Animal Husbandry Department claiming that inspections are carried out regularly. The department says fines are issued to those found violating norms. This issue highlights the ongoing struggle to ensure compliance and proper standards within the city's dairy operations.

Read Full Article →