The tragic incident of an abandoned mare dying from injuries in Kolkata sparks outrage and an FIR by PETA India, demanding justice and stricter regulations on horse abuse in the tourism sector.
Mare Dies of Injuries in Kolkata: A Tragic Incident in Kolkata
On May 12, 2025, a disturbing incident unfolded in Kolkata when an emaciated mare was found abandoned and suffering at Brigade Parade Ground. The horse, unable to stand and exhibiting signs of severe dehydration and spinal injury, was determined by a veterinarian to have been struck with a blunt object. Despite emergency treatment efforts, the mare succumbed to her injuries. This incident has sparked outrage among animal rights organizations and the public, leading to an FIR being filed at Maidan police station by PETA India.
Mare Dies of Injuries in Kolkata: Details of the Incident
The mare was discovered lying on the ground, unable to move her hind limbs. A veterinarian’s examination revealed that the horse had suffered a spinal injury, likely caused by a blunt force trauma. The animal was also found to be severely emaciated and dehydrated, indicating prolonged neglect and abuse. Emergency veterinary care was administered, but unfortunately, the mare died shortly after.
This incident occurred just days after another FIR was registered at Bhowanipore Police Station following a viral video showing a horse collapsing on the road while pulling a carriage. The video had sparked widespread outrage over the treatment of horses used for tourist rides in the city.
Animal Rights Organizations Respond
PETA India, a prominent animal rights organization, condemned the incident and filed the FIR at Maidan police station. Chumki Dutta, a representative from PETA India, stated, “This young mare died in agony because she was abused and left to die when she was most in need of care.” She further criticized the continued use of horses for tourist rides in Kolkata, highlighting the severe injuries and deaths that have occurred in recent years.
According to data gathered by PETA India and the Cape Foundation, at least eight horses were reported dead in Kolkata in 2024 due to similar abuse and neglect. These organizations have been actively campaigning against the use of horse-drawn carriages and advocating for the transition to electric vehicles as a more humane alternative.
Legal Framework and Previous Incidents
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, provides the legal framework for addressing cases of animal abuse and neglect in India. Under this Act, the owners and handlers of animals can be held accountable for causing unnecessary pain and suffering to animals.
In previous years, several incidents involving the abuse and neglect of horses in Kolkata have led to public outcry and legal action. For instance, in 2024, three malnourished and overworked horses collapsed on city roads, leading to one horse’s death. Animal rights organizations filed FIRs against the owners for maltreatment of the horses.
Judicial Oversight and Recommendations
The Calcutta High Court has been actively involved in addressing the issue of horse-drawn carriages in Kolkata. In 2022, the court set up a four-member committee to examine and submit a report on unlicensed and unfit horses used to haul tourist carriages. The committee included representatives from the state animal resources development department, Animal Welfare Board of India, PETA India, and the Cape Foundation.
The court’s intervention underscores the need for stringent regulations and oversight to prevent the exploitation and abuse of animals used in the tourism industry. Recommendations have been made for the rehabilitation of horse owners and the provision of alternative livelihoods to hauling tourists in carriages.
Public Response and Advocacy
The public response to the incident has been one of outrage and demand for change. Social media platforms have been flooded with calls for justice for the mare and for the end of horse-drawn carriages in Kolkata. Animal rights activists and concerned citizens are urging the authorities to take immediate action to prevent further abuse and to implement humane alternatives.
Advocacy groups are also calling for increased awareness and education about the rights and welfare of animals, particularly those used in the tourism industry. They emphasize the importance of compassion and ethical treatment of animals in all sectors of society.
A Call for Change
The tragic death of the mare at Brigade Parade Ground serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of animal abuse and neglect in Kolkata. It highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in the treatment of animals used for tourism and other purposes. The FIR filed by PETA India is a step towards accountability, but sustained efforts are required to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
The authorities must take decisive action to enforce existing laws, implement stricter regulations, and promote alternative, humane practices. Only through collective effort and commitment can we hope to prevent further suffering and ensure the welfare of animals in Kolkata and beyond.
Official References and Further Reading
For readers seeking to verify official sources or understand the legal and regulatory frameworks mentioned in this article, the following links may be helpful:
- 🔹 PETA India Official Website
For more information on animal rights campaigns and news related to animal cruelty. - 🔹 Cape Foundation Official Website
For details about the foundation’s work on animal welfare and related issues. - 🔹 Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 – India Code
For the complete legal framework under which animals are protected from cruelty and neglect. - 🔹 Calcutta High Court Official Website
For information regarding the Calcutta High Court’s jurisdiction and recent rulings related to animal welfare.
Also read: Home | Channel 6 Network – Latest News, Breaking Updates: Politics, Business, Tech & More
