Section 22: Restriction on Exhibition and Training of Performing Animals

Overview

Section 22 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, deals with the rules surrounding performing animals – like those you might see in circuses or street performances. It essentially says that anyone who wants to exhibit or train these animals needs to be officially registered. The government also has the power to ban the exhibition or training of certain animal species altogether if it believes it’s necessary to prevent cruelty.

Key Provisions

• Registration Requirement: No person can legally exhibit or train a performing animal without first registering with the relevant authorities. This is a core requirement to ensure oversight and prevent abuse.
• Government Ban: The Central Government can, through a notification, specify certain animal species that cannot be exhibited or trained. This allows the government to protect vulnerable animals.
• Further Restrictions: The section allows for additional rules and regulations to be made regarding the exhibition and training of performing animals. These rules can cover things like housing, feeding, and the types of performances allowed.

Practical Impact

This section impacts several groups. Citizens benefit from the protection of animals from cruel treatment during performances. Animal trainers and exhibitors (like circus owners) must comply with registration requirements and any restrictions placed on the animals they use. Government authorities are responsible for enforcing the registration process, issuing notifications banning certain animals, and creating further regulations to ensure animal welfare. Failure to comply can lead to penalties under the Act.

Examples

• Example 1: A circus owner wants to exhibit elephants and tigers. Before doing so, they *must* register with the designated authority. Without registration, exhibiting these animals is illegal under Section 22.
• Example 2: The Central Government issues a notification stating that monkeys are no longer permitted to be trained for street performances due to concerns about their welfare. Even if a person is registered as an animal trainer, they cannot legally train or exhibit monkeys after this notification is issued. This demonstrates the government’s power to impose species-specific restrictions.