Section 325: Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita
Section 325 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, a groundbreaking piece of legislation that seeks to change the game when it comes to animal welfare. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 was enacted on December 25, 2023. It officially came into effect on July 1, 2024. This new law, with its clear and unambiguous language, leaves no room for interpretation. It defines animal cruelty in explicit terms and outlines severe penalties for those who would dare to inflict harm upon our animal companions. Here are some of the significance of this law:
- Closing the Gaps: This section tackles the critical issue of cruelty towards animals, including killing, poisoning, maiming, and rendering them useless.
- Clear and Comprehensive: Unlike previous laws (like Sections 428 and 429 of the IPC), Section 325 sits under “Offences Against Property” in the BNS, highlighting the shift towards viewing animals as more than just possessions.
- Stiffer Penalties: The section allows for imprisonment of up to five years, fines, or both, acting as a stronger deterrent against animal cruelty.
- Universal Protection: By defining “animal” broadly, the law extends protection to all living creatures, not just specific species or those deemed useful.
