Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jun 30: The District Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), North Goa, has made a strong appeal for fostering a humane and law-abiding society where animals are treated with dignity and compassion.

The appeal follows public outrage over an alleged incident in Navelim, where a pet dog was reportedly shot with an air gun. According to a complaint filed over ten days ago by a Belem-based family, a local resident, Jovito Fernandes, is accused of firing four pellets at a dog belonging to Valentina, causing injuries to the animal.

In a public circular issued today, the DSPCA reminded citizens that animal cruelty is both unethical and illegal. Citing Article 51A(g) of the Constitution and the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, the agency emphasized that it is the collective responsibility of individuals, communities, and civic bodies—including housing societies and panchayats—to protect and care for community animals.

The circular also clarified the legality of feeding and nurturing stray animals, stating that such compassionate acts are fully protected under law. “Feeding community animals is not only permitted but encouraged, as it fosters friendliness and coexistence. Harassment of caregivers is unlawful,” the DSPCA noted. It further explained that caregivers cannot be held liable for the actions of community animals, who are not owned pets.

On the issue of dog bites, the DSPCA urged that all such incidents be addressed humanely and in strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures.

Importantly, the agency warned that cruelty toward animals—including acts of maiming, poisoning, or killing—is a serious offence under Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and may attract imprisonment of up to five years, a fine, or both.