Nagaland bans sale, consumption of dog meat

Nagaland government on Friday banned sale and consumption of dog meat, in a significant decision amid concerns over cruelty to animals.

decision to ban commercial import and trading of dogs, and sale of dog meat, both cooked and raw, was taken during a state cabinet meeting, said state Parliamentary Affairs Minister Neiba Kronu.

Considering dangers of importing dogs from or states for consumption and also in line with Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, state cabinet took decision, Kronu, who is spokesperson of government, said.

government also decided to ban commercial import and trading of pigs with immediate effect, he said.

state already banned import of pigs following outbreak of swine fever in region and cabinet gave approval to it in meeting, he said.

" state government has decided to ban commercial import and trading of dogs and dog markets and also sale of dog meat, both cooked and uncooked. Appreciate wise decision taken by state's cabinet," Chief Secretary Temjen Toy said in a tweet.

decision by state government is being seen as historic by animal protection groups.

Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FOIAPO), collective of animal protection groups in country, urged Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday to take steps regarding matter.

In its letter, federation said as controversial Yulin Dog Meat festival in China concluded on June 20 amid widespread global condemnation, "here at home we continue to exploit dogs for meat".

We are writing with deep concern, shock and horror at recent ims that have emerged from animal bazaar markets in Dimapur where dogs are seen in terrified conditions, tied up in sacks (gunny bags), waiting at a wet market, for ir illegal slaughter, trade and consumption as meat, it said.

dog meat trade in Nagaland is illegal and in violation of various laws, including Section 429 of Indian Penal Code (IPC) that makes killing of animals an offence punishable with up to five years of imprisonment.

Food Product Standards and Food Additives Regulations, 2011 and Meat Food Products Order, 1973 state that only Ovines, Bovines, Suillines and Caprines can be consumed as meat, while consumption of any or animal, including dogs, is strictly prohibited.