India
Constitution of India
Summary Description
Imposes a duty on the State to protect animals.
Topics
Species
All animals
Jurisdiction
India
Sub-Jurisdiction
N/A
Type of Act
Legislation
Status
In force
Legal Value
Binding
Date Enacted
1949
Date Updated
June, 2023
Official Citation
India Const. art. 51A(g)
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Enshrines into law the philosophy of ahimsa ("do no harm") through stating "it shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures" (Article 51A(g)).
Weaknesses
- Animals are still classified as property under the law.
Related Laws/Policies
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