Target: Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal, India
Goal: Pursue the harshest lawful penalties and end tourist horse-carriage abuse after a young mare reportedly died dehydrated and crippled.
A young mare was reportedly discovered collapsing on a parade ground, her body ravaged by severe dehydration and a spinal injury. According to an animal-welfare complaint, the horse had been abandoned without food, water, or medical aid and ultimately succumbed to her untreated wounds despite rescue efforts. Police have registered a cruelty-to-animals case and launched an investigation to identify the owner who purportedly left the animal to suffer alone.
Local sources indicate that at least eight working horses have died in similar circumstances this year, victims of chronic anemia, malnutrition, and relentless labor on unforgiving city streets. Many animals pulling tourist carriages are overworked, forced to toil in extreme heat, and provided little rest or veterinary care. This disturbing pattern of neglect underscores systemic failures in enforcement of existing animal-protection laws.
Without decisive action, more horses will likely endure the same fate. Prosecutors must seek maximum fines and jail time under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, mandate restitution for veterinary costs, and push for a transition from animal-drawn carriages to humane electric vehicles. Sign below to demand strong enforcement to signal that abandoning and abusing working animals carries real consequences.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear CM Banerjee,
As reported by concerned advocates, a critically injured mare was found at the Bridge Parade Ground and later died from severe dehydration and a suspected spinal fracture. Witnesses allege the horse had been abandoned in agony when she most needed care. An animal-welfare organization has filed a formal complaint, and your department has opened a case under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
This tragic incident is apparently not isolated. Sources cite at least eight horse deaths in Kolkata this year alone, attributed to malnutrition, overwork, and neglect. Such recurring loss of life suggests systemic disregard for the welfare of animals used in tourist carriage rides.
We respectfully urge you to ensure a thorough investigation, press for the maximum penalties permissible by law, and work with municipal authorities to phase out abusive horse-drawn carriages in favor of humane alternatives. Firm action now will honor this mare’s memory and protect other working animals from similar suffering.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Naseeb
