The BBMP Establishes a Deadline of January 15th for Community Animal Guidelines Compliance

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) guidelines on managing community animals must be followed by all public and private organisations, including Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Apartment Owners Associations (AOAs), by January 15, 2025, according to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP).  This directive, issued on Monday, aims to ensure proper implementation of animal welfare regulations across the city.

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960, the Animal Birth Control Rules of 2023, and rulings from the Supreme Court and High Court serve as the foundation for the recommendations. They are intended to control how community animals are treated and encourage compliance with animal care regulations, according to BBMP.

Key Provisions in the Guidelines

The AWBI guidelines mandate several measures to address the management of community animals and promote coexistence. These include:

• Designated Feeding Areas: RWAs and other institutions must identify specific spots for feeding community dogs.
• Awareness Campaigns: Residents are to be educated on animal rights and welfare laws.
• Handling Dog Bite Cases: Clear protocols must be implemented to address and manage incidents of dog bites.
• Pet Ownership Regulation: The guidelines encourage responsible pet management to reduce abandonment and related issues.

While some organisations have taken steps toward compliance, BBMP officials have expressed concern over widespread non-compliance. Recent High Court directives emphasising stricter pet management and dog bite regulations have added urgency to the implementation of these measures.

Violations and Challenges Persist

The BBMP has identified a number of violations that persist even after guidelines have been issued. These include examples of cruelty, harassment of animal feeders, unlawful relocation of neighbourhood pets, and depriving animals for food and water. There have also been reports of fictitious dog bite allegations.

The civic body noted that harassment of community animal caretakers remains a recurring issue, further complicating efforts to ensure proper treatment of animals in public and private spaces.

Enforcement Measures Announced

To ensure adherence to the guidelines, The Animal Husbandry Department will carry out unexpected audits following the January 15 deadline, according to the BBMP. Legal action will be taken against those proven to be breaking the regulations.

Zonal Assistant Directors have been instructed to monitor violations, particularly those involving the relocation of animals and harassment of feeders. BBMP officials have assured that strict measures will be taken to address non-compliance and enforce the guidelines effectively.

Focus on Coexistence and Responsibility

The implementation of these guidelines is seen as a significant step toward fostering humane coexistence between residents and community animals. BBMP has called on all stakeholders, including RWAs, AOAs, and other institutions, to actively participate in creating an environment that values animal welfare.

By setting a firm deadline and outlining enforcement mechanisms, the civic body hopes to bring about a shift in how community animals are treated in Bengaluru.