Averting Cruelty at Belagavi Temple
A significant and compassionate intervention recently occurred at the revered Mangai Devi Temple in Belagavi, India. Efforts by PETA India, local animal welfare activists, and spiritual leader Shri Dayananda Swamiji led to the rescue of thousands of chicks. This operation successfully prevented ritualistic animal sacrifice.
Read more: https://blrpost.com/thousands-of-chicks-rescued-at-mangai-devi-temple-in-belagavi-after-peta-india-intervention/
The Traditional Practice
Historically, during the traditional Ashada month festival, devotees bought live chicks as offerings. They then threw these birds onto the temple’s sanctum roof. This long-standing practice caused immense suffering. It often led to the birds’ agonizing death. Sometimes, the birds were resold for further abuse. Countless lives were at risk each year due to this custom.
Decisive Intervention by Authorities
Numerous appeals and official complaints detailed the cruelty involved. Following these, the Belagavi Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioner took decisive action. They collaboratively issued a crucial official order. This order unequivocally banned animal sacrifice within the temple premises and its vicinity.
To ensure widespread awareness and compliance, police personnel actively deployed across the temple grounds. They also prominently displayed informative banners. These banners clearly highlighted the illegality of animal sacrifice under Indian law. Authorities meticulously monitored all activities throughout the festival period. This vigilant oversight ensured full adherence to the new order. As a result, not a single chick was subjected to cruel rituals during this year’s sacred observance.
Legal Backing and Future Advocacy
PETA India has publicly commended the Belagavi authorities. They praised their swift, principled, and highly effective response. They underscored that this action aligns perfectly with existing legal frameworks. Specifically, they cited the Karnataka Prevention of Animal Sacrifices Act, 1959. They also referenced the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Both statutes explicitly prohibit and penalize animal sacrifice in public religious settings across the nation. This landmark intervention marks a crucial victory. It advances the ongoing battle against animal cruelty. PETA India continues its tireless advocacy to protect all animals from such harmful traditions.
Read also : Big Change! Belagavi Police Now Focus on Traffic Relief Instead of Fines
