An Analysis of Animal Welfare Jurisprudence in India

India is a welfare state that seeks to promote the prosperity and well-being of its subjects, including animals. Animal welfare jurisprudence in India comprises the legal frameworks, court rulings, and legislative amendments that aim to prohibit cruelty, promote humane treatment, and ensure the welfare of animals without affecting any individual’s rights. While the Constitution of India does not explicitly mention animal welfare, the fundamental duties, the directive principles, and judicial interpretations offers a base to recognize the importance of protecting and promoting the welfare of animals within the Indian legal framework. The article also notes that there is still a long way to go in improving animal welfare in India, and that the fundamental duties are not justiciable and may be enforced in courts only by proceeding with extensive judicial interpretation.