Stray Dog Compassion: Reflecting India's Constitutional Ethos and Humane Values
Protecting stray dogs aligns with India's constitutional values of compassion and dignity.
Photo by Jon Tyson
Editorial Analysis
The authors argue that compassion for stray dogs is not just a matter of personal preference but a constitutional duty rooted in Article 51A(g). They advocate for humane treatment and responsible management of stray animals, emphasizing the importance of coexistence between humans and animals.
Main Arguments:
- Article 51A(g) of the Constitution mandates compassion for all living creatures, making it a fundamental duty of every citizen. This provision underscores the ethical and moral responsibility to treat animals with kindness and respect.
- Viewing stray dogs as a nuisance is a flawed perspective that ignores the intrinsic value of these animals. Humane treatment and responsible management are necessary to ensure their well-being and promote coexistence with humans.
- Effective implementation of animal welfare laws is crucial for protecting stray dogs from cruelty and neglect. This includes providing adequate food, shelter, and medical care, as well as promoting responsible pet ownership.
- Compassion for stray dogs reflects a broader commitment to justice, fairness, and the well-being of all members of society, including animals. This aligns with the constitutional values of equality, dignity, and social justice.
Counter Arguments:
- Some people view stray dogs as a nuisance and a threat to public safety, advocating for their removal or even extermination. This perspective often stems from fear, ignorance, or a lack of understanding about animal behavior.
- Others argue that resources should be prioritized for human welfare rather than animal welfare, particularly in a country with widespread poverty and inequality. This argument overlooks the interconnectedness of human and animal well-being and the ethical imperative to treat all living creatures with compassion.
Conclusion
Policy Implications
The article discusses the importance of compassion towards stray dogs in India, arguing that it aligns with the country's constitutional ethos. It emphasizes that Article 51A(g) of the Constitution makes it a fundamental duty of every citizen to have compassion for living creatures. The author contends that viewing stray dogs as a nuisance is a flawed perspective and that humane treatment and responsible management are necessary.
The piece highlights the need for effective implementation of animal welfare laws and promoting coexistence between humans and animals. The article suggests that compassion for stray dogs reflects a broader commitment to justice, fairness, and the well-being of all members of society, including animals. This topic is relevant for UPSC exams under the Ethics and Social Issues sections, particularly concerning animal rights, constitutional duties, and compassionate governance.
Key Facts
Article 51A(g): Duty to have compassion for living creatures
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Social Justice
GS Paper IV: Ethics, Human Values, Compassion
Connects to Fundamental Duties, Directive Principles
Potential Essay Topics: Animal Rights, Ethical Governance
Visual Insights
Compassion for Stray Dogs: Constitutional and Ethical Dimensions
This mind map illustrates the interconnectedness of constitutional duties, animal welfare laws, and humane values in the context of stray dog management in India.
Compassion for Stray Dogs
- ●Article 51A(g)
- ●Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
- ●Humane Values
- ●Responsible Management
More Information
Background
The historical context of animal welfare in India can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence of compassion for animals found in Vedic texts and Buddhist teachings. Emperor Ashoka's edicts in the 3rd century BCE emphasized non-violence and protection of animals. During the British colonial period, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act was enacted in 1890, marking a formal legal framework for animal protection.
Post-independence, the Constitution of India incorporated animal welfare principles through Article 48A (Directive Principles) and Article 51A(g) (Fundamental Duties). The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) was established in 1962 to promote animal welfare. Over the decades, various legislations and amendments have been introduced to strengthen animal protection laws and address emerging challenges, reflecting a gradual evolution of societal attitudes and legal frameworks towards animal rights.
Latest Developments
Recent developments in animal welfare include increased activism and awareness campaigns promoting humane treatment of animals. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the plight of stray animals, leading to community-led initiatives for feeding and care. There's a growing focus on responsible pet ownership and adoption programs.
The government has been working on strengthening the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, to impose stricter penalties for animal cruelty. The future outlook involves greater emphasis on effective implementation of animal welfare laws, promoting animal birth control (ABC) programs, and fostering collaboration between government, NGOs, and citizens to create a more compassionate and animal-friendly society. Debates continue regarding the balance between human safety and animal rights, particularly concerning stray dog management and wildlife conservation.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding Article 51A(g) of the Constitution of India: 1. It is a Fundamental Right enforceable by the courts. 2. It casts a duty on every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment. 3. It includes having compassion for living creatures. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Article 51A(g) is a Fundamental Duty, not a Fundamental Right. It mandates citizens to protect the environment and have compassion for living creatures. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Source Articles
SC shift on stray dogs is welcome — and humane | The Indian Express
To resolve the street dogs issue, use reason and compassion, not fear and cruel | The Indian Express
Feeding stray dogs: how Indian law balances questions of compassion & public order | Explained News - The Indian Express
By standing up for stray animals, India can show the world a better way | The Indian Express
In stray dogs and Aravalli hill cases, the Supreme Court has gone against its formidable legacy | The Indian Express