Draft Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Rules, 2023

The Government has recently introduced the Draft Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Rules, 2023, with the aim of strengthening animal welfare efforts across the country. These draft rules were published on 21st July, 2023,

The rules are designed to establish a comprehensive framework for the effective functioning of Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCAs) and to promote the welfare of animals in every district.

Key highlights of the new rules:

1. As per the rules, each State Government is required to establish an SPCA for every district within six months from the date of commencement of these Rules, unless such a Society has already been established under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Establishment and Regulation of Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) Rules 2001. Existing Societies notified under the 2001 rules shall now be governed by the new Rules. The SPCA shall be registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, by the District Magistrate or District Collector, ensuring their perpetual operation.
2. Non-government organizations currently operating under the name “Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals” in any district of the State are required to make necessary changes to their name within sixty days of the notification of these Rules.
3. The SPCA shall adopt the Model By-laws published by the Board, with the option to include additional by-laws as deemed necessary for the administration of its affairs and functions. All District SPAs in each State must upload their by-laws on the website of the relevant State Board or the website of the Animal Husbandry Department of the concerned state, ensuring transparency and accessibility.
4. The Management Committee of SPCA shall consist of non-government members whose term shall be three years from the date of notification. The State Government or the local authority of the district shall make fresh nominations for the non-government members within thirty days of the expiry of their term.
5. The General Body of the SPCA can include any person desirous of becoming a member, subject to police verification and approval by the Chairperson. Additionally, animal welfare organizations operating in the district may seek membership of the SPCA.
6. The State Government has the authority to appoint officers and employees necessary for the smooth functioning of the SPCA.
7. The rules mandate the establishment of infirmaries in every district to ensure proper care and treatment for animals.
8. The State Board shall review the annual report and audited accounts of the SPCA and provide directions for improvement, if necessary, in the interest of efficient discharge of functions.

Any Person desiring to make any suggestions or objections in respect of the this draft rules may forward the same for the consideration of the Central Government to the Joint Secretary (Animal Welfare), Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Room No. 245, Krishi Bhawan, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Road, New Delhi 110001. These suggestions or objections shall be forwarded to the govt. before 20th August, 2023.