The recent decision by the Committee for Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CCSEA) to retract its proposal to utilize stray dogs in vaccine trials has been a significant development in Indian scientific and ethical landscape. CCSEA’s change of heart is largely due to the concerns voiced by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India about the scientific and ethical implications of involving stray dogs in experiments.
Objections Raised By PETA India Against CCSEA’s Recommendation
PETA India has emphasized that CCSEA’s recommendation contradicted the mandates of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, as well as the Breeding of and Experiments on the Animals (Control and Supervision) Amendment Rules, 2006. Furthermore, PETA pointed out that using stray dogs for experiments contrasted with the policies of other scientific and technological leaders like the EU, UK, US, and Australia.
PETA India further asserted that the use of stray dogs in tests could not provide reliable predictions of human responses to vaccines. This, they claimed, could result in delays in approving effective treatments.
The Role Of PETA India
PETA India is a non-profit organization dedicated to terminating animal cruelty in business and society. Their mission includes raising awareness about animal cruelty, educating the public and policymakers, and promoting respect for all animal life. PETA India’s objections were instrumental in prompting the reversal of CCSEA’s recommendations.
About The Committee for Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CCSEA)
CCSEA is a statutory body under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D). The establishment of the committee was sanctioned under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960. The primary responsibility of CCSEA is to ensure that animals are not subjected to unnecessary distress before, during, or after being used in experiments.
The committee has developed the Breeding of and Experiments on Animals (Control & Supervision) Rules, 1998 (amended in 2001 & 2006) to regulate experimentation on animals. As per these rules, all establishments conducting bio-medical research or involved in breeding and trading of laboratory animals must register with CPCSEA.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960: A Look Into Its Provisions
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act is a legislation passed by the Indian parliament aimed at preventing unnecessary suffering inflicted on animals. Originally enacted in 1890, the current act was instated in 1960.
The act seeks to prevent and protect animals from various forms of ill-treatment, including cruelty, overwork, torture, and abuse. It also paved the way for the establishment of the Animal Welfare Board of India, further strengthening animal rights protection.