The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has, for the first time, systematically tracked cases of cruelty against animals, compiling comprehensive data that reveals 9,039 cases were registered and 10,312 persons arrested across India in 2024.
State-wise Distribution
Maharashtra recorded the highest number of such cases at 2,356, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 1,346, Uttar Pradesh with 1,121, Gujarat with 526, and Tamil Nadu with 457. These figures highlight regional variations in reporting and enforcement under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
Data Scope and Processing
The dataset provides a national-level statistical picture of how animal cruelty offences are handled, covering FIR registration, investigation, chargesheet filing, and court disposal. The police disposed of nearly 77% (6,969) of total cases, while 2,070 cases (approximately 23%) remained pending investigation at the end of 2024.
Animal Theft Statistics
Separately, the NCRB recorded 8,660 cases of animal theft, valued at Rs 48.8 crore, with a recovery rate of nearly 45%, exceeding the national average for property crimes.
Expert Reactions
Animal welfare activist Gauri Maulekhi called the formal recording a significant step toward transparency and data-driven governance. She noted that while many cases still go unreported, moving from anecdotes to hard data allows clear assessment of system functioning. Maulekhi stated that the dataset provides a valuable roadmap to examine the entire criminal justice chain, from police responsiveness to judicial resolution, and described it as a major step in the right direction.
Trial Stage Outcomes
At the trial stage, the data reflects a high conviction rate of over 80%, rising to nearly 94% in metropolitan areas, indicating that cases reaching conclusion are largely supported by evidence. However, over 82% of cases remain pending trial before courts, pointing to significant delays in judicial disposal.
Shreemoyee Chakraborty from People For Animals hailed the NCRB's move as a historic step, emphasizing that it marks an important shift in how animal cruelty is recognized within India's criminal justice system.
