Andaman and Nicobar Prohibits Manufacture, Sale, and Trade of Illegal Spiked Bits Used to Harm Horses Following PETA India’s Appeal

Following an appeal from PETA India, the Andaman & Nicobar Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services directed all zonal officers and senior veterinary officers to prohibit the sale, manufacture, and trade of illegal spiked bits, which are used to control horses. District societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals and the superintendent of police are among those copied on the circular.

Spiked bits sink deep into horses’ mouths and cut their lips and tongues, causing extreme pain and lifelong damage. Rule 8 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Draught and Pack Animals Rules, 1965, framed under The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, prohibits the use of “any spiked stick or bit, harness or yoke with spikes, knobs or projections or any sharp tackle or equipment”, but spiked bits are commonly used to control horses forced to work at weddings, give rides, haul carriages, and lug goods.

Recently, the governments of Goa and Meghalaya also issued letters urging action on PETA India’s request to prohibit the sale, manufacture, and trade of spiked bits there.

PETA India has conducted enforcement actions with police, including in Chandigarh, Delhi, Maharashtra, and Punjab, seizing more than 800 spiked bits in the past year alone.