Mon Dec 16 15:30:46 UTC 2024: ## Bengaluru Issues Animal Welfare Mandate
**Bengaluru, December 17, 2024** – The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has issued a strict mandate requiring all public and private institutions, including resident welfare associations (RWAs) and apartment owners associations (AOAs), to fully comply with Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) guidelines for community animals by January 15, 2025.
The order, stemming from the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and recent High Court directives, aims to address widespread non-compliance with animal welfare laws. Key aspects of the guidelines include responsible pet ownership, designated feeding areas for community dogs, public education on animal rights, and improved management of dog bite incidents.
The BBMP cites ongoing problems such as the illegal relocation of animals, harassment of animal caretakers, and false reports of dog bites. Despite previous efforts, these violations persist.
To ensure compliance, the Animal Husbandry Department will conduct surprise audits after the January 15th deadline. Entities found violating the guidelines face legal action. The BBMP has also instructed Zonal Assistant Directors to take firm action against animal relocation and harassment. Detailed guidelines are available on the BBMP Animal Husbandry Instagram page (@bbmp_animalhusbandry), and citizens can contact the BBMP at 1533 for further information.
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