Turning Policy Into Practice: DU Law Faculty Hosts Session On Animal Justice Through Litigation & Innovation

The session was conceptualised under the guidance of Prof. (Dr.) Sunanda Bharti, whose continued efforts have played a significant role in shaping conversations around animal law within the faculty. The event aimed to encourage students to think of law not just as a subject, but as a tool for meaningful change.

The session began with the screening of a documentary titled “Zoochosis: The Effects of Captivity on Animals”, which offered a glimpse into the often-overlooked realities of animals living in captivity. Through powerful visuals, the documentary highlighted how confinement in spaces like zoos and circuses can lead to psychological distress, abnormal behaviour, and a loss of natural instincts. The documentary can be accessed here: https://youtu.be/EyFOUGppHco?si=mqc7yKbKFi9focqJ

Senior Advocate Raj Panjwani, a pioneer in environmental and animal law, spoke about the evolution of animal rights jurisprudence in India. Simplifying complex legal principles, he explained the relevance of the Mischief Rule and encouraged students to look beyond the text of the law to understand the harm it seeks to prevent. He also introduced the idea of a “species best interest standard”, urging a shift towards an ecocentric approach that recognises the intrinsic value of all living beings.

He further discussed the Doctrine of Parens Patriae, emphasising the role of courts as guardians of those who cannot speak for themselves. Referring to the 2018 Uttarakhand High Court judgment, he highlighted how Indian jurisprudence is gradually moving towards recognising animals as entities deserving of legal protection.

Mr. Ankit Puri, Founder of Voiceless India, brought in the perspective of grassroots advocacy. He spoke about the scale of animal exploitation and its connection with environmental concerns, while also emphasising the role of awareness and individual choices in driving change. His address encouraged students to think about the ethical dimensions of everyday decisions.

Prof. (Dr.) Anju Vali Tikoo, Dean of the Faculty of Law, reminded the audience that the inability of animals to express their suffering places a greater responsibility on humans to act with compassion. She stressed that when alternatives exist, choosing not to harm becomes both a moral and social responsibility.

Before the conclusion of the event, the efforts of the student executive core members were acknowledged, and certificates were distributed in recognition of their contribution. Mr. Shubham Jain, Ms. Khushi Kumari, and Mr. Aditya Kumar were present for the same.

Prof. (Dr.) Sunanda Bharti delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event, including the administration, staff, and student organisers. She especially appreciated the dedication of the student team, including Pragya, Disha, Pranjal Shrivastava, Dikshant, Aditi Agarwal, Aditi Chauhan, Aditya yadav and Abhinandan kaul, whose efforts played an important role in organising the event.

Following this, Mr. Ankur Arora, Founder of the Animal Law Cell, highlighted that the event would not have been possible without the constant guidance and support of Prof. (Dr.) Sunanda Bharti. He acknowledged her commitment to the cause and her role in inspiring students, noting that her leadership truly deserves appreciation.

The event concluded with an engaging interaction with students, leaving them with a deeper understanding of animal law as not just a legal discipline, but a field rooted in empathy, responsibility, and action.