Cruelty to animals is a crime in India. You can report it to the police, and in serious cases the police must register an FIR.
Which laws apply
- Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, Section 11: beating, overloading, starving, confining without food or water, abandoning, and other acts of cruelty.
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Section 325: killing, poisoning, maiming or rendering an animal useless. This is a cognisable offence, so the police can act without a court’s permission.
Before you go
- Note the date, time and exact place.
- Take photos or video if it’s safe to do so.
- Write down the names or descriptions of the people involved, and of any witnesses.
- If the animal is injured, get it help first (see “Found an injured animal”).
At the police station
- Give a written complaint and keep a copy. Ask for it to be registered as an FIR.
- Name the sections that apply (above).
- You can report at any police station. If the incident happened elsewhere, they should register a “Zero FIR” and transfer it.
- Ask for the FIR number, or a receipt for your complaint.
If the police refuse
- Send your complaint in writing to the Superintendent of Police (or Deputy Commissioner of Police) by post or email.
- If nothing happens, you can apply to the local Magistrate to direct the police to register it.
- You can also inform your State Animal Welfare Board and the Animal Welfare Board of India.
Get support
Local animal welfare groups often help with complaints. Find one near you in the Directory.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.