Anushka Sharma demands stricter laws against animal cruelty

Days after pregnant elephant died of eating cracker-stuffed pinepapple, actor Anushka Sharma has started a digital campaign #JusticeForAnimals demanding amendment of The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 so that stricter punishment could be meted out to offenders.

"I was absolutely appalled and aghast at what happened when I read the news, I couldn't understand how such a cruel act could have been carried out," said the PK actor about the recent spate of events that highlighted insensitivity and cruelty against animals.

"Right now you can get away after being cruel to an animal by paying 50 rupees - you pay and you are out! There has to be stricter laws and people has to understand the importance of this only then will we move towards being a civilised planet," she said.

"I really wish we have stricter laws against animal cruelty and they are exercised and executed in a way that there is fear in people. They shouldn't be able to think that they can do something like this so easily and can get away with it by paying a small fine," she added.

Cases of cruelty against animals is on the rise since last few days with the recent one being the killing of a pregnant elephant after consuming explosive laced pineapple.