The Rajya Sabha on December 09, 2025, issued the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Amendment) Bill, 2025, further to amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
The following has been amended, namely: -
• The Bill significantly enhances penalties for animal cruelty, increasing fines and introducing mandatory imprisonment for repeat and grievous offences, including gruesome cruelty, bestiality, and killing of animals.
• It expands definitions of “animal,” “gruesome cruelty,” and “community animal,” and formally recognizes five freedoms of animals, placing responsibility on individuals and local bodies.
• The amendments strengthen institutional mechanisms by restructuring the Animal Welfare Board of India, mandating the establishment of State Animal Welfare Boards, and empowering them with inspection, enforcement, and coordination powers.
• Several serious offences are made cognizable and non-bailable, with stricter bail conditions and extended limitation periods for prosecution.
• The Bill also introduces liability for poultry establishments and livestock farms, linking penalties to the market value of animals to ensure effective deterrence.
[Bill No. XIX]
