The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) proposed various changes, in an intent to replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC)
BNS has hiked the punishment if someone’s pet animal attacks an individual
It proposed fines of up to Rs 5,000 and six months imprisonment for pet attacks
BNS Section 291, mirroring IPC Section 289, raised the fine from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000, addressing concerns over attacks on humans
The Supreme Court ruled in 2022 that those feeding stray dogs could be held liable for attack-related costs
The 2022 National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report notes a 19% rise in animal attacks, with an alarming increase in injuries and fatalities
About 1,510 people died from animal bites and dog bites surged by 26.5% in 2023, with 27.6 lakh cases
The Health Ministry reported a 26.5% increase in dog bites, reaching 27.6 lakh cases in 2023
Evolving laws, public opinions, and alarming statistics highlight the need for comprehensive measures to address this issue, without compromising animal safety