Youth Activism Animal Rights

Animal Rights in Nepal: Laws, Challenges, and Welfare Measures

Animal rights in Nepal have become a growing socio-legal and ethical concern. While Hindu and Buddhist traditions emphasize compassion and non-violence, animals continue to face cruelty, neglect, and exploitation. The Constitution of Nepal and the Muluki Criminal Code provide legal protection against animal abuse, abandonment, overloading, and public slaughter. Provisions restrict cruelty, abandonment, and killing of animals, with punishments including fines and imprisonment. Despite these laws, challenges persist, such as mass animal sacrifices during festivals, stray animal neglect, poor slaughterhouse conditions, wildlife trafficking, and the exploitation of animals for entertainment and tourism. NGOs, activists, and awareness campaigns have started shifting attitudes, with community sterilization programs and a decline in mass sacrifices showing signs of progress. However, stronger implementation and a comprehensive Animal Welfare Act remain crucial. Ensuring animal rights in Nepal requires both cultural transformation and effective law enforcement to protect animals as sentient beings deserving dignity and respect.