“Battling the Livestock Bill: Voices Rise Against Animal Cruelty and Genetic Disarray”                                                                                                            In a move that has sparked widespread concern and outrage among animal lovers and activists, the draft Livestock Bill has been making waves in recent days. The bill, which aims to regulate the import and export of livestock and livestock products, has ignited fears of animal cruelty and threats to native animal populations. As social media platforms become inundated with expressions of dissent, celebrities and influencers are joining the chorus of voices demanding the withdrawal of the bill. Let’s delve deeper into the contentious Livestock Bill, its potential implications, and the fervent opposition it has garnered.

The Livestock Bill: An Overview:                                                                                                                                                                                                                    The draft Livestock Bill, available for public scrutiny since June 7 on the website of the animal husbandry and dairying ministry, is a proposed re-enactment of the existing Livestock Importation Act of 1898 and the Livestock Importation (Amendment) Act of 2001. Its objective is to establish measures for regulating the import and export of livestock and livestock products while promoting their development and exports. However, activists argue that the bill may pave the way for unregulated large-scale import and export activities, potentially leading to the degradation of native animal gene pools and unmitigated animal cruelty.

Rising Opposition and Social Media Outcry:                                                                                                                                                                                       Amidst growing concerns, animal rights activists and concerned citizens have taken to social media platforms, primarily Twitter, to voice their dissent using the hashtag #saynotolivestockbill2023. Prominent figures from various fields, including actors, Jain leaders, and intellectuals, have joined the campaign, urging people to reject the bill. The inclusion of canines and felines in the list of livestock has particularly raised objections, with activists highlighting the dangers of treating them as mere commodities and the potential havoc it could wreak on their lives.

Celebrity Endorsements and Advocacy:                                                                                                                                                                                                Recognizing the urgency of the situation, celebrities have also stepped forward to lend their support to the cause. Actress Jaya Bhattacharya, in a passionate tweet, implored authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of animals, emphasizing the need to halt the bill’s progression. Amita Singh, a retired professor from Jawaharlal Nehru University, labeled the bill as “anti-national, mindless, and whimsical,” calling for its immediate withdrawal. Even veteran actress Zeenat Aman recorded an audio message urging widespread participation in a Twitterthon to protest against the bill’s potential legalization of live animal transport, which often entails horrific cruelty.

Government Stance and Counterarguments:                                                                                                                                                                                          While activists continue to vehemently oppose the Livestock Bill, government officials have offered a different perspective. They assert that the bill serves as an “enabling” law, providing a framework for future regulations. These regulations, officials argue, are necessary for ensuring biosecurity, safeguarding indigenous biodiversity, and adapting to changing biosecurity requirements. Former secretary of animal husbandry and dairying, Tarun Sridhar, emphasized the importance of flexibility in issuing regulations and restrictions to address evolving challenges.

The Livestock Bill has ignited a fierce debate between animal rights activists and government officials. While activists perceive potential threats to animal welfare and native biodiversity, officials stress the need for regulatory measures to ensure biosecurity. As the deadline for submitting suggestions and objections approaches, the fate of the bill hangs in the balance. The widespread outcry and social media mobilization by concerned individuals and influential figures signal the power of collective advocacy in influencing legislative decisions. The coming days will reveal whether public pressure can lead to significant changes or even the withdrawal of the contentious Livestock Bill.