Assam Police Register FIR Following PETA India's Complaint Over Animal Cruelty in Stage Performance
In a significant development, an FIR was officially registered on Monday at the Jajori Police Station located in Assam's Nagaon district. This legal action was initiated after PETA India stepped in to address allegations of severe animal cruelty during a live stage performance. The case targets an organiser and a performer accused of brutally killing a goat and beheading a pigeon as part of their act.
Details of the Accused and Allegations
The individuals implicated in this disturbing incident have been identified as Pranjal Saikia, hailing from Sonitpur district, and Dulal Bordoloi, a resident of Nagaon district. According to PETA India, this particular performance marked the 26th occurrence of such acts, with the organisation alleging that a total of 26 other goats and pigeons had been similarly killed in previous shows. The group has condemned these actions as blatant violations of animal welfare laws.
Legal Framework and Charges Filed
The FIR has been lodged under specific legal provisions, including Section 325 and Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, alongside Sections 11(1)(a) and 11(1)(l) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960. A press statement from PETA India outlined these charges, emphasizing the seriousness of the offenses. Initially, the case was filed at Dhing Police Station by Ujjal Bhuyan, who reported that during last year's Ras Mahotsav, Saikia had killed a goat and a bird during his performance. However, due to jurisdictional issues, the case was transferred to Jajori Police Station, which holds territorial authority over the incident location.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Tanuj Kumar Doley, the officer-in-charge at Jajori Police Station, provided details on the investigation. He confirmed that Pranjal Saikia, the performer, and Dulal Bordoloi, the organiser, were arrested based on substantial evidence gathered during the probe. Both individuals were charged under relevant sections of the law, which were deemed bailable, and subsequently presented before the local court for further legal proceedings.
PETA India's Strong Condemnation and Recommendations
Ishani Rathee, the Cruelty Response coordinator at PETA India, issued a stern statement regarding the incident. She remarked, "If you're an artist who feels the need to resort to shock tactics like cruelty to animals, then it's time to consider another job." The organisation also advocated for psychiatric evaluation and counselling for those found guilty of animal abuse, citing research that indicates such individuals often become repeat offenders and may escalate to harming humans.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare in entertainment and underscores the role of activist groups in prompting legal action against cruelty.
