Centre relieves Animals used in Circuses

Guwahati: In a relief to the animals used or to say, exploited in the circuses, the Central government has banned the use of animals in any sort of mobile entertainment.

The common sight in the Indian circuses, the jumbos, the chimpanzee, monkeys, parrots and other birds, dogs, snake and even the lions or tigers will no more be seen from now as the Union environment ministry issued draft rules on Wednesday. Although the actual order will be put to action after one month from now, this has come as a good news for the environmentalists, animal activists, and other animal lovers.

The mobile entertainment means like the circuses are a rare sight these days unlike the yesteryears when the circuses used to the prime point of attractions with audiences rushing in heavy flocks to enjoy the magic, tricks and physical activities and fun shows. The ones, whichever is remaining in this industry at present will have to obey the new rules passed by the government. As the shows of lions and tigers have already been banned, the remaining animals in the popular entertainment shows will also not be allowed from now on.

The very news of the ban on the use of animals in circuses has come as thunder stroke on the circus organizers because the animals play a vital role in attracting and entertaining the audiences.

The draft rules called the Performing Animals (Registration) Amendment Rules, 2018, states, "No animals shall be used for any performances or exhibition at any circus or mobile entertainment facility."

Gauri Maulekhi, an animal right activist, says, "The People For Animals (PFA) had requested the environment ministry repeatedly for an amendment in the rules to put an end to abuse of animals for unnatural performances in circuses and cruelty in the name of entertainment. After giving several chances to circus operators, this change is progressive and inevitable."

Appreciating the government move on ban of animals in circuses, PETA India CEO Manilal Valliyate says, "A ban on the use of animals in circuses would bring India in line with other countries that have already made this move and show the world that this is a progressive, compassionate nation that won't tolerate animal abuse."

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