Indian Government Protects Circus Animals

India is the latest country to take a stand against circuses that exploit and abuse animals for entertainment and profit. Following an investigation by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals that took place from November 2012 to July 2013—which showed workers hitting elephants with bullhooks and subjecting myriad other animals with inhumane confinement, unsanitary living conditions, and lack of veterinary care—the Animal Welfare Board of India outlawed the use of elephants to be registered for circus performances. The government organization also will force the circuses cited in PETA’s investigation to free all elderly animals for rehabilitation and will take legal action against parties that forced animals to continue to perform despite their need for veterinary care.