The Hon’ble Punjab and Haryana High Court opined that animals may be mute but we as a society have to speak on their behalf and no pain or agony should be caused to the animals. Cruelty to animals also cause psychological pain to them. Animals breath like humans and have emotions; they require food, water, shelter, normal behavior, medical care, self-determination. The animals have a right to life and bodily integrity, honor and dignity. Animals cannot be treated merely as property.
Brief Facts:
The present petition has been preferred by the Petitioner seeking quashing of FIR registered under Sections 279, 429 IPC on the basis of compromise.
The FIR was registered by Respondent No.2 stating animals ( buffaloes and calves) were hit by a bus which was at a high speed. The driver’s negligent act caused injury and harm to the animals.
Observations of the Court:
It was observed that a compromise was entered into between the parties.
However, the Court opined that animals may be mute but we as a society have to speak on their behalf and no pain or agony should be caused to the animals. Cruelty to animals also cause psychological pain to them. Animals breath like humans and have emotions; they require food, water, shelter, normal behavior, medical care, self-determination. The animals have a right to life and bodily integrity, honor and dignity. Animals cannot be treated merely as property.
Based on the above, it was held that quashing of FIR only on the basis of compromise cannot be done.
The decision of the Court:
Based on the aforementioned reasoning, the Court accordingly dismissed the petition.
Case Title: Sohan Singh v. State of Punjab & Ors.
Case No.: CRM-M-60678-2022 (O/M)
Coram: Hon'ble Justice Harsh Bunger
Advocates for Petitioners: Adv. Mr. J.S. Bhinder
Advocates for Respondents: Adv. Mr. Sukhmeet Singh
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