The Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi has taken note of the threat to lives of stray dogs to issue a ban on the wanton killing of animals in the district.
Complaints had been received from local residents and NGOs that certain headmen had made a public announcement to authorise the slaying of stray dogs.
The DC’s order was made under Section 144 of the CrPC. Any wanton killing or cruelty to animals is illegal and punishable with up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine or both, she said.
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 it is also illegal for a person, even the owner, to cause unnecessary pain or suffering on an animal, to kick, torture, mutilate, administer an injurious substance or cruelly kill an animal.