All animals need equal consideration
The article discusses the Supreme Court's differing approaches to animal welfare, contrasting its 'paramount importance' observation for an elephant (Raman) with a narrower interpretation for street dogs. It highlights the legal distinctions (e.g., Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for endangered elephants vs. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 for domestic animals) and an underlying anthropocentric bias in Indian laws. Drawing on Peter Singer's concept of 'equal consideration,' the article argues for a stronger legislative foundation from Parliament to ensure moral consideration and dignity for all animals, addressing existing gaps in policy and law.
The article discusses the Supreme Court's differing approaches to animal welfare, contrasting its 'paramount importance' observation for an elephant (Raman) with a narrower interpretation for street dogs. It highlights the legal distinctions (e.g., Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for endangered elephants vs. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 for domestic animals) and an underlying anthropocentric bias in Indian laws. Drawing on Peter Singer's concept of 'equal consideration,' the article argues for a stronger legislative foundation from Parliament to ensure moral consideration and dignity for all animals, addressing existing gaps in policy and law.
Exam linkage
GS Paper 3: Environment & Ecology (Biodiversity, Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment)
Syllabus mapping
This topic appears in Mains
Questions on Environment & Ecology come up regularly in GS papers. Practice writing an answer — and see exactly what earns marks.
Editorial & Review Process
Every current affairs analysis and practice question on UPSC Practice is researched using authoritative primary sources and reviewed for factual accuracy and syllabus relevance. Read our Editorial Policy.