Cruelty in Animal Rides

Elephants are revered in Indian culture and religion. They are perhaps the most iconic victims of the animal ride industry. They are often used for rides in popular tourist spots, for e.g. Periyar wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, Mysore Palace, and many national parks throughout the country.

Taming: The process of breaking and training an elephant for rides is inherently cruel. The training process (phajaan) involves separating young elephants from their mothers and subjecting them to physical and psychological torture to break their spirit. This includes beatings, starvation, and confinement in small spaces. The aim is to make the elephant submissive to human commands.

Injuries: Once trained, the abuse does not end. Elephants used for rides are often chained for long periods, deprived of adequate food and water, and forced to work in extreme weather conditions. The heavy seats and the weight of tourists lead to severe spinal and foot problems, causing chronic pain and injury. The chains often cut into their legs and the mental trauma is so high, it cannot be quantified. This causes rhythmical rocking, or swaying which is never observed in the wild and is pathological.

Also read: About the Ankusha / Bullhook

Given the various roles camels play in transportation, agriculture, and tourism, cruelty to camels in India is a significant animal rights issue:

• Camels are often used for transporting heavy loads in rural and desert areas, leading to physical strain and exhaustion.
• Overworking without sufficient rest can cause chronic pain and physical injuries.
• In tourist areas, camels are used for rides, often for extended hours without breaks.
• The weight of multiple riders and the continuous work without adequate rest periods can lead to severe physical stress.
• In many cases, camels are not provided with sufficient food and water, especially when they are working in harsh environments.
• Dehydration and malnutrition are common, leading to weakened immune systems and increased susceptibility to diseases.
• The food given to camels is often of poor quality and lacking in essential nutrients, further contributing to their malnutrition.
• Camels are often subjected to physical abuse, including beating and whipping, to control their behavior and make them work harder.
• Handlers use harsh and painful methods to train young camels, leading to injuries and psychological trauma.
• Camels are sometimes restrained in ways that cause pain and discomfort, such as tying their legs or muzzling them tightly.
• Camels are frequently exposed to extreme weather conditions without proper shelter, leading to heat stress or hypothermia.
• Lack of adequate shelter exacerbates health issues and reduces their overall well-being.
• They are often kept in unsanitary conditions, increasing the risk of infections and diseases.
• Regular veterinary care is often neglected, leading to untreated injuries, infections, and diseases.
• Parasitic infections and other health problems are common due to a lack of medical attention.
• When transported, camels are often packed into vehicles in inhumane conditions, causing stress, injuries, and sometimes death.
• Camels are sometimes used in traditional festivals and events where they may be subjected to loud noises, crowds, and other stressful conditions.
• In some cultural practices, camels are painted or decorated with chemicals harmful to their health.

In hill stations like Mahabaleshwar, Manali, Shimla, and Mussoorie, horses and ponies are commonly used for tourist rides. They often endure severe neglect and abuse. Many of them are underfed and malnourished. They are given inadequate food, leading to weakness and susceptibility to diseases while being frequently overloaded with heavy tourists and made to walk on steep, rough terrains, leading to severe joint and back problems. They are often kept in inadequate shelter from harsh weather, leading to further health issues.

• Horses are frequently used in weddings for long durations, often standing for hours without adequate rest or breaks.
• They travel long distances to reach the wedding venue, sometimes in adverse weather conditions.
• They are not fed or watered appropriately during these events, leading to dehydration and malnutrition.
• There is a lack of proper shelter to protect them from extreme weather conditions.
• Riders or handlers sometimes use sharp objects or harsh tools to control the horses, causing pain and injury.
• To make them march or perform, excessive whipping or prodding is common.
• Weddings in India often involve loud music, fireworks, and large crowds, which can be extremely stressful and frightening for horses.
• Being in an unfamiliar and chaotic environment can cause significant stress and anxiety to the horses.
• They are often decorated with heavy and restrictive ornaments, which can cause discomfort and impede their natural movement.
• Sometimes, chemicals and paints are used to decorate the horses, which can cause skin irritation and other health issues.
• Handlers and riders lack proper training in horse care, leading to mishandling and accidental injuries.

• Physical force, including beatings and whippings, is commonly used to control and discipline the animals, resulting in injuries and trauma.
• Sharp objects like sticks with nails or pointed metal rods are sometimes used, causing wounds and severe pain.
• Harnesses and yokes that are ill-fitted or too tight cause chafing, sores, and restricted blood flow.
• Continuous use of such equipment leads to chronic injuries and deformities.
• They are frequently kept in unsanitary environments, increasing the risk of disease.
• Basic needs such as grooming and cleaning are neglected, leading to parasitic infestations and skin diseases.
• Social animals like bullocks and donkeys suffer from isolation when kept alone, leading to psychological distress.
• Bullocks are widely used in farming for plowing and other heavy tasks, often beyond their capacity.
• Donkeys are used for transporting goods in hilly and difficult terrains, leading to stress and physical wear.

Also read: Cruelty In Bullock Cart Races