CHENNAI: Acting on video evidence showing birds being illegally used in dangerous stage performances by magicians associated with the P C Sorcar and Dhaya’s International Magic Show at Chennai's Museum Theatre, People For Cattle in India (PFCI), People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India (PETA India) and others coordinated a joint operation with the Chennai city police that resulted in the rescue of 15 birds of different species.
The magicians were using the birds for stage performances in violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960 and the Delhi high court order dated Feb 9, 2022, which directed action against unregistered circuses. The birds—doves, pigeons, and ducks—were rescued and temporarily transferred to the Blue Cross of India shelter in Chennai for medical examination and interim care, after which they were transferred to Kalote Animal Trust in Raigad for permanent rehabilitation. Authorities are continuing their investigation to locate the missing macaws.
The magicians were using birds without the mandatory Performing Animals Registration Certificate (PARC) as required under the Performing Animals (Registration) Rules, 2001 (PARR, 2001), framed under the PCA Act, 1960. PFCI's investigation documented birds being used in multiple dangerous tricks, including acts involving fire in proximity to the animals, exposing them to stress and potential injury.
“Animals used in magic tricks and other circus performances are subjected to unnatural, stressful training, dangerous environments, constant travel and are caged or chained when not in use,” said Peta India lead cruelty response coordinator Sreekutty Benett. “We urge the public to help by refusing to attend shows that use animals.”
PFCI founder Arun Prasanna commended the Chennai police for their timely action. Numerous inspections by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) and Peta prove that all animal circuses are cruel. Even in circuses with valid PARCs, animals have been found chained or confined to small, barren cages when not being used for performances. Animals in circuses are typically deprived of adequate veterinary care, food, water, and shelter, and are forced to perform tricks through punishment. Many animals in circuses display stereotypic, repetitive behaviour indicative of extreme stress.
