A major milestone was witnessed today in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2025 was formally introduced for debate. Applauding this forward-looking legislation, Punjab Cabinet Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Minister Baljit Kaur hailed it as a vital move toward preserving Punjab’s spiritual and cultural legacy.
During her address, Minister Baljit Kaur highlighted the deep-rooted connection between humans and animals since ancient times. She reflected on the journey of mankind from forest dwellers to modern civilization, noting that while intelligence and communication propelled human progress, they also, unfortunately, contributed to growing cruelty and neglect toward animals.
Minister Baljit Kaur shared a poignant anecdote to emphasize how humans, despite being the dominant species, often misuse their power, exploiting animals instead of caring for them. She stressed that humans were meant to be guardians of animal welfare, not their oppressors.
Minister Baljit Kaur reminded the House that the Earth belongs not only to humans but to all living creatures — animals, birds, insects, and even microscopic organisms — each playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. She warned that disturbing this balance could lead to severe consequences for mankind.
Drawing from Punjab’s cultural ethos, she mentioned that animals have always held a respected place in Punjabi households, with cattle being treated like family. Taking care of animals was seen not just as a responsibility, but a moral obligation.
Thanking for his leadership, she praised his commitment to preserving Punjab’s heritage and standing up for animal rights. She especially welcomed the reintroduction of rural traditions like bullock cart races as part of this cultural revival.
Minister Baljit Kaur emphasized that this was the first time such a far-reaching animal welfare bill had been introduced in the Assembly — a historic initiative that strengthens compassion, ethics, and environmental responsibility.
She concluded by affirming that the duty to protect, respect, and care for animals lies with society as a whole and pledged her unwavering support for the bill.