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Constitution of India on Animal Rights

Amruta Ubale
January 26, 2021 Updated: December 24, 2021
Republic day honours the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect. A truly remarkable document in its own right, the Indian Constitution is the largest constitution in the world. Laying out a framework of laws and guidelines that help govern and direct the lives of over 17% of the world’s population, the Constitution of India is vocal about the lives of the often neglected “neighbours” of humans - Animals.

As written in the Constitution, it is the duty of Indian citizens to protect the environment and be compassionate toward all living beings. The Indian Constitution accounts for the safety and dignified treatment of animal life and has provisions for animal rights just like the fundamental rights given to all its citizens. 

  1. Article 21: The Fundamental Right to Life

Article 21 states that everyone has the right to life and cannot be deprived of life or personal liberty, unless established by law. The Supreme Court has stated animals have rights under this article during the famous Jallikattu (bull taming) case.

  1. Article 51 A (g)

In the same ruling, the Supreme Court declared Article 51 A (g) of the Constitution to be the “magna carta of animal rights” in India and included the right to life of animals under Article 21 to value their lives as much as humans. 

With the 42nd Amendment of 1976, Article 51 A of the Constitution laid down the Fundamental Duties of Indian citizens. Article 51 A (g) states that it is the duty of Indian citizens ‘to protect and improve the natural environment and have compassion for all living creatures’.

  1. Article 48 and 48 A

The Directive Principles of State Policy in Article 48 of the Constitution lays the foundation of animal welfare state policies. According to Article 48, the State shall aim to improve animal husbandry through a modern scientific approach, while preserving, enhancing, and preventing slaughter of cattle. Furthermore, according to Article 48A, added during the 42nd Amendment, the State endeavours to maintain and protect the ecology, forests, wildlife and the environment in the country. 

15 YEARS OF CHANGING THE WORLD FOR ANIMALS

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