The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has, for the first time, systematically tracked and compiled data on cases of cruelty against animals in India. According to the 2024 report, a total of 9,039 cases were registered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, leading to the arrest of 10,312 individuals across the country.
State-wise Breakdown
Maharashtra reported the highest number of cases at 2,356, followed by Madhya Pradesh (1,346), Uttar Pradesh (1,121), Gujarat (526), and Tamil Nadu (457). These figures provide the first comprehensive national-level statistical overview of how animal cruelty offences are processed by the criminal justice system.
Investigation and Disposal
The report reveals that police disposed of nearly 77% (6,969) of the total cases, while approximately 23% (2,070 cases) remained pending investigation at the end of 2024. Separately, the NCRB recorded 8,660 cases of animal theft, with stolen property valued at Rs 48.8 crore. The recovery rate for these thefts stood at nearly 45%, exceeding the national average for property crimes.
Expert Reactions
Animal welfare activist Gauri Maulekhi hailed the NCRB's move as a significant step toward transparency and data-driven governance. "While many cases still go unreported, moving from anecdotes to hard data allows us to clearly see how the system is functioning," she said. Maulekhi emphasized that the dataset provides a valuable roadmap to examine the entire criminal justice chain, from police responsiveness to judicial resolution. "Overall, this is a major step in the right direction for our legal system and a strong foundation for future progress," she added.
Conviction and Pendency
At the trial stage, the data reflects a high conviction rate of over 80%, rising to nearly 94% in metropolitan areas. This indicates that cases reaching conclusion are largely supported by evidence. However, more than 82% of cases remain pending trial before courts, highlighting significant delays in judicial disposal.
Shreemoyee Chakraborty from People For Animals called the NCRB's initiative a "historic step," stating, "This is a step in the right direction by the government and marks an important shift in how animal cruelty is recognised within India's criminal justice system."
