JAMMU, Oct 1: The Animal Husbandry Department (AHD), Jammu, in collaboration with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, has seized 140 metal spiked or “thorn” bits used on horses in Katra and Shiv Khori areas of Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district.
The seizure was carried out during an awareness-cum-enforcement drive aimed at curbing the use of devices that cause pain and injury to horses used for tourist rides, transportation of goods and other activities.
According to an official handout, the seized spiked bits were designed to press into the sensitive gums and lip tissues of animals. Each confiscated device was replaced with a smooth, painless bit.
The use of spiked bits violates Rule 8 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Draught and Pack Animals Rules, 1965, the department said.
Director Animal Husbandry, Jammu, Dr Yugal Kishore said tourism and celebrations should not come at the cost of animal welfare. He described spiked bits as cruel devices that can cause pain and injuries to horses and said the drive was undertaken to prevent animal abuse and ensure compliance with the rules.
PETA India Policy Associate Chumki Dutta said horse owners should abandon the use of spiked bits and urged the public to consider mechanised transportation and other humane alternatives for tourism and recreational activities.
PETA India Senior Manager of Mechanisation Projects Mahesh Tyagi said the continued use of such devices was linked to the belief that horses need painful equipment to remain under control, while stressing the injuries and distress they can cause.
MAP of India has also launched a nationwide campaign to assist animal husbandry departments and police in enforcing the ban on spiked bits and encouraging action against their illegal use. (Agencies)