Gangtok: Animal cruelty remains a growing concern, with recent incidents in Sikkim shining a light on the urgent need for stronger laws and greater public awareness. The rescue of an injured puppy near the Rangpo border is a stark reminder of the harsh realities animals face daily in the state. While local activists and concerned citizens came together to help the injured puppy, the situation exposed significant gaps in the system for dealing with such cases effectively.
The incident in Rangpo is not an isolated one. Across Sikkim and India, countless animals are subjected to abuse, neglect, and abandonment. Yet, the lack of strong legal enforcement exacerbates the problem. In this case, when a woman approached the police for help, she was allegedly turned away due to a lack of witnesses. This raises troubling questions—why is it so difficult to seek justice for voiceless creatures? Why must animals suffer simply because no one was there to witness the cruelty?
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, though a landmark law, is outdated and fails to provide the necessary framework to punish offenders effectively. With penalties often limited to a mere few hundred rupees, abusers face little deterrent to continue their harmful behavior. Sikkim, known for its environmental consciousness, must now take a stronger stance and push for tougher punishments to protect the animals that call it home.
However, laws alone cannot tackle the issue. A significant change in public awareness and sensitivity toward animal welfare is needed. In the Rangpo case, a viral video on social media played a crucial role in bringing attention to the puppy’s plight, leading to prompt action. While this demonstrates the power of public outrage, it should not be the sole mechanism for justice. A functional system must be in place to ensure that animals are not neglected and that those who harm them are swiftly brought to account.
Organizations like People For Animals (PFA) in Sikkim and local activists have been doing commendable work in rescuing and protecting animals, but they cannot do it alone. Schools, community groups, and government institutions must actively contribute to educating people about animal kindness. The establishment of more rescue centers, veterinary facilities, and helplines will ensure timely assistance and provide critical support in cases of cruelty.
Sikkim is already recognized for its natural beauty, eco-tourism, and conservation efforts. Now, it has an opportunity to set a new standard by becoming a model state for animal welfare. Strengthening animal protection laws, creating awareness programs, and ensuring that animal cruelty cases are handled with the seriousness they deserve will establish Sikkim as a leader in this vital area.
The Rangpo incident should serve as a wake-up call for everyone. While rescuing a single puppy is important, the ultimate goal must be to create a future where no animal has to endure such suffering in the first place. Every life, human or animal, matters, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the most vulnerable among us are given the protection they deserve.
Animal cruelty is not just an isolated issue—it’s a reflection of who we are as a society. If we truly wish to be recognized as compassionate and progressive, we must act now and prioritize the welfare of all living beings.