Centre proposes prohibition of performance of animals in any circus; activist hail move

The Centre has proposed prohibition on the use of animals for performances, exhibition at any circus or mobile entertainment facilities, a move hailed by animal rights activists as "progressive and laudable".

The Environment Ministry, in a draft notification dated November 28, has invited comments from various stakeholders on the issue within 30 days.

"In the Performing Animals (Registration) Rules, 2001, under rule 13, the following shall be added - 13A - prohibition on exhibiting and training of animals for specified performances. No animals shall be used for any performances or exhibition at any circus or mobile entertainment facility," the draft notification said.

The draft also defined "circus" as "means of a large public entertainment, typically presented in one or more very large tents or in an outdoor or indoor arena, featuring exhibitions of pageantry, feats of skill and daring, performing animals, among others."