The People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) requested superstar-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Friday to stop a proposed goat sacrifice in a Tamil Nadu temple that his fans had announced as part of a special prayer for his political success.
The animal rights organisation made the request after one of the oldest Rajinikanth fan clubs based in Madurai said it will sacrifice goats at the local Alagarkoil shrine on January 7 and host a feast for at least 1,000 people.
The superstar, who announced last Sunday plans to enter politics, was not available for comments as he is away on a foreign tour.
In a letter to the superstar, who has nearly 80,000 fans clubs across Tamil Nadu and abroad, PETA official Nikunj Sharma wrote: “The power you hold can help make a positive difference to the lives of all living beings.”
PETA asked the administration and police to prevent the planned sacrifice, saying such cruelty against animals is illegal in the country. Sharma reminded that “killing of animals outside a licensed slaughterhouse is not allowed by law”.
He cited the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, which says anyone can be punished if that person “mutilates or kills an animal … in any unnecessarily cruel manner”. Also, Section 429 of the Indian Penal Code considers killing or maiming an animal a punishable offence, Sharma said.
{{/usCountry}}He cited the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, which says anyone can be punished if that person “mutilates or kills an animal … in any unnecessarily cruel manner”. Also, Section 429 of the Indian Penal Code considers killing or maiming an animal a punishable offence, Sharma said.
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