In response to an appeal by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, the Chandigarh administration has issued a directive prohibiting the use, sale, manufacture, and trade of glue traps for rodent control in the Union territory.
The order, issued by the director of animal husbandry and fisheries, UT, mandates compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. This act aims to prevent unnecessary pain and suffering to animals. The enforcement of the directive involves conducting drives to seize these cruel glue traps and taking legal action against offenders.
The medical officer of health of the municipal corporation, along with a deputy superintendent of police—who also serves as the crime-cum-nodal officer of animal welfare—has been assigned the responsibility of ensuring strict adherence to the order.
Glue traps, typically made of plastic trays or cardboard covered with strong glue, have been criticized for their indiscriminate nature, often ensnaring unintended animals. Mice, rats, and other creatures caught in these traps may suffer suffocation, self-mutilation, or starvation, prompting concerns from animal welfare advocates.
“PETA India applauds the Chandigarh administration for taking steps to protect animals, no matter how small, and for urging compliance with and enforcement of the law,” said Farhat Ul Ain, advocacy officer at PETA India.
PETA recommends alternative, humane methods for rodent control, such as making areas unattractive or inaccessible to rodents, eliminating food sources, and using humane cage traps.
