Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare says those who torture and abuse animals would have to face the harshest punishment under the law, as such cases are increasing in the country.
In a statement, the Ministry said that there are increasing complaints of animals being abused, killed, and neglected by some people in the Maldives.
Noting that animals are living creatures who feel pain, fear, and suffering, the ministry said it is the humanitarian, religious, and legal duty of everyone to treat them with compassion and protection.
The basic rights of animals have now been legally enshrined and guaranteed, the ministry said, adding that these rights, which have been formulated in accordance with international standards, include:
- Freedom from hunger, thirst, and starvation
- Freedom from fear, anxiety, and worry
- Freedom from physical discomfort.
- Freedom from pain, injury, and disease
- Freedom from obstacles to habitual animal behavior.
The ministry also said that those who mistreat, torture, kill, or neglect animals will be subject to severe legal penalties such as fines and imprisonment under the Act.
The ministry further said that it is prohibited to commit any inhuman treatment or mistreatment of animals. The ministry also noted that it is prohibited to leave pets unattended in public places.
Anyone who commits any kind of inhuman treatment of animals can be fined between MVR 5,000 and MVR 50,000, depending on the severity of the act.
If pets are left unattended in public places, they can be fined between MVR 5,000 and MVR 10,000, depending on the seriousness of the offence.
