NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the reported murder of a person due to police inaction on his complaint about threats to his life in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu Reportedly, the victim was actively involved in legal cases against the Waqf land in the area
The Commission issues notices to the State DGP and the District Collector, Tirunelveli calling for a detailed report within four weeks
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 10:58AM by PIB Delhi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that a retired Sub-Inspector of Police was murdered in broad daylight in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu by a group of four persons. Reportedly, the victim was an activist fighting legal cases against the encroachment of Waqf land in the area and had been receiving death threats from some people. He had also alleged that the police was not taking proper action against them as it was hand-in-glove with them.
The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise a serious violation of the human rights of the victim. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Director General of Police and the District Collector, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks.
According to the media report, carried on 19th March, 2025, the family of the deceased has alleged that police inaction and gross negligence led to his murder.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
    A man who went missing in Sau Mau Ping has been located.
    Ng Chi-kwong Dilly, aged 56, went missing after he left his residence on Hiu Kwong Street on February 24 afternoon. His family made a report to Police on March 7.
    The man was located in Ngau Tau Kok this morning (March 24). He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.
One of the key functions of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), under Section 9(k) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, is to impart education on the humane treatment of animals and promote public awareness against the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals. This is achieved through various means, including lectures, books, posters, cinematographic exhibitions, and more. Various steps taken to enhance public awareness and participation in animal welfare initiatives, particularly among school children are placed at Annexure-1.
AWBI is publishing various guidelines, regulations and booklets so as to sensitize the law enforcement authorities on the issues related to animal welfare laws. AWBI also organized the training programmes for the Law enforcement authorities to sensitize them on the issues related to animal welfare laws.
During this financial year, a One-day training programme was conducted for the Police Officials on 19.10.2024 at Police Training School, Thanisandra, Bengaluru on Animal Welfare Laws. During this training, sessions on Importance on Animal Welfare, PCA Act, 1960, Regulations on Slaughter and Transportation of Animals, ABC Rules and Practical Training and case studies were covered. The subject experts in the field of animal welfare laws and rules delivered their lectures to sensitize the officials of the Police Department. The Superintendent of Police and Principal, Police Training School and his team coordinated in successful conducting of the training programme.
AWBI has published four books to create awareness amongst the State Governments and UTs including Law enforcement authorities as per the details given below:
Law Enforcement Handbook on Animal Welfare Laws
Animal Law Handbook for Urban Local bodies
Handbook for Veterinary Officers on Animal Welfare Laws
Revised Animal Birth Control (ABC) module for Street Dogs Population management, rabies eradication and reducing man-dog conflict.
AWBI, on receipt of complaints regarding cruelty to animals from various parts of the country, is taking up the matters with the concerned State Governments and District Collectors / Magistrates / District Superintendent of police sensitizing them about the existing animal welfare laws for conducting an enquiry to the cruelty matters. The State Authorities are empowered to initiate appropriate action against the offenders meting out cruelty to animals and to take action as per the law.
The details of letters issued for awareness for Amroha, Uttar Pradesh are given in Annexure-2.
As per Section 3 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, it shall be the duty of every person having the care or charge of any animal to take all reasonable measures to ensure the well-being of such animal and to prevent the infliction upon such animal of unnecessary pain or suffering.
Also, as per Section 11(1)(i) of the PCA Act, 1960, If any person, without reasonable cause, abandons any animal in circumstances which render it likely that it will suffer pain by reason of starvation or thirst; he shall be punishable, in the case of a first offence, with fine which shall not be less than ten rupees but which may extend to fifty rupees and in the case of a second or subsequent offence committed within three years of the previous offence, with fine which shall not be less than twenty-five rupees but which may extend to one hundred rupees or with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three months, or with both
As per the Article 246(3) of the Constitution of India in List II of Seventh Schedule the Preservation, protection and improvement of stock and prevention of animal diseases; veterinary training and practice is under State list on which the State has exclusive power to make laws for such State or any part thereof with respect to any of the matters enumerated in List II in the Seventh Schedule. Accordingly, it is the responsibility of the local bodies to take care of the stray animals and to regularize the process of registration of the Pet Ownership in their respective municipal areas, which will help in monitoring the number of pet animals.
Details of rules notified and advisories issued by the Central Government are placed at Annexure – 3.
Annexure-1
Steps taken to enhance public awareness and participation in animal welfare initiatives, particularly among school children
AWBI has been consistently encouraging animal welfare organizations and individuals by nominating them as Honorary Animal Welfare Representative (HAWR) to extend educational programs to schools by organizing activities such as poster competitions, painting contests, and essay writing competitions. These programs aim to foster compassion towards animals and help shape better, more responsible citizens.
To support these efforts, AWBI has developed educational modules for school children in two age groups: Class V-VIII and Class IX-XII. These modules cover various topics aimed at raising awareness and sensitizing students about animal welfare. For Classes V-VII, the subjects include Compassion for Animals, Animal Behavior, Animal Cruelty, Responsible Pet Ownership, and Animal Superstition. For Classes IX-XII, the modules cover more advanced topics like Veterinary Help for Pet and Street Animals, Conflict Mitigation, Achievements in Animal Welfare, Animal Welfare and Sustainability, Human Health, and Ahimsa (Culture and Heritage in India). These modules have been circulated to the Department of Education in all State Governments and UTs to ensure wide dissemination.
AWBI has also initiated training programs in schools to ensure that its message reaches young children effectively. In addition, regular seminars, workshops, and awareness programs conducted by State Governments and animal welfare organizations play a crucial role in sensitizing the public, particularly animal lovers.
The AWBI regularly issues advisories and circulars to raise public awareness about animal welfare. These advisories are issued during key events such as Animal Welfare Fortnight (January 14 to 30), World Animal Day, World Rabies Day, humane celebrations of Deepavali, and during the summer and winter seasons to emphasize animal welfare concerns.
Moreover, AWBI conducts training programs for Honorary Animal Welfare Representatives and issues Colony Animal CareTaker authorization letters to compassionate individuals who care for community animals in their local areas. These efforts help in promoting the well-being of animals and fostering a compassionate society.
Annexure-2
Letters issued for awareness for Amroha, Uttar Pradesh
S.No.
Date of Complaint
Subject of Complaint
Letter to whom
1
31.05.2022
Request to take necessary action to save life of stray animals in Amroha
Letter dated 31.05.2022 was issued to the District Magistrate, Amroha, Uttar Pradesh
2
13.04.2024
Requested to implementation the provisions of the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 and AWBI Module to control the population of the street dogs effectively in District Amroha
Letter dated 24.04.2024 was issued to the Member Secretary, Uttar Pradesh State Animal Welfare Board & The Director, Animal Husbandry Department, Directorate of Animal Husbandry, Gokarnnath Rd, Badshah Bagh, Lucknow and The Municipal Commissioner Municipal Corporation of Amroha
3
07.02.2025
Complaint against the owner of the Pit Bull for attacking and killing a Community Dog in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh
Letter dated 04.03.2025 was issued to the Member Secretary, Uttar Pradesh State Animal Welfare Board & The Director, Animal Husbandry Department, Directorate of Animal Husbandry, Gokarnnath Rd, Badshah Bagh, Lucknow
Annexure-3
Details of rules notified and advisories issued by the Central Government
The Central Government has also notified the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Dog Breeding and Marketing) Rules, 2017 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Pet Shop) Rules, 2018 to regulate the illegal breeding of animals and to regulate the sale or trade in pet animals respectively. These Rules are being implemented by the respective State Governments and UTs.
The AWBI had issued several advisories in relation to stray dogs and pet animals:
Pet Dogs and Street Dogs Circular dated 26.02.2015.
Circular to all DGPs of all States/UTs regarding harassment to Citizens showing compassion to animals dated 25-08-2015 and 28.10.2015.
Advisory to initiate necessary action for rescue and rehabilitation of stray animals dated 12-07-2018.
Advisory to identify sufficient number of feeding spots for stray dogs in every district and to properly implement the (AWBI Revised Guidelines on Pet dogs and street dogs) dated 03.03.2021.
Request to properly implement and circulate the standard protocol for the adoption of community animals dated 17.05.2022.
Guidelines for use of Muzzle on Dogs and care of community dogs dated 17.08.2022.
Request to Principal Secretary, Urban Development and Animal Husbandry as well as to the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of ABC Rules, 2023 dated 31.03.2023.
Request to all District Magistrate of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of ABC Rules, 2023 dated 30.05.2023.
This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
14 persons arrested during anti-illegal worker operations The ImmD Task Force conducted an operation at a food expo in the district, according to gathered intelligence. During the operation, some target persons were found promoting and selling food and goods. ImmD Task Force officers arrested 14 suspected illegal workers. The arrested suspected illegal workers comprised four men and 10 women, aged 31 to 45, all Mainland visitors. The investigation is still ongoing, and more persons involved in the case may be arrested.
An ImmD spokesman said, “Any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him or her shall be guilty of an offence. Also, visitors are not allowed to take employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, without the permission of the Director of Immigration. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalties.”Issued at HKT 12:47
Livestock Census is a regular quinquennial exercise of Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD). The first Livestock Census was conducted in the year 1919 and last census i.e. 20th Livestock Census was conducted in 2019. The 21st Livestock Census exercise has been launched across the country on 25th October, 2024 and is likely to be completed by 31st March, 2025. It includes enumeration of 15 species of domesticated animals namely, cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep, yak, mithun, dog, rabbit, pig, horse, pony, donkey, mules, camel, elephant and poultry birds. Assessing trends in livestock and breeds for better policymaking, collating data on indigenous and exotic breeds for their conservation and breeding programs, providing valuable inputs for various government planning and initiatives for development and welfare in the livestock sector are some aims and objectives of this exercise.
The enumeration work of 21st Livestock census is ongoing. However, as per the 20th Livestock Census, the details of livestock count of State of Rajasthan as well as in Districts of Sriganganagar and Hanumangarh are as follows –
Districts/ State
Livestock
Cattle
Buffalo
Goat
Sheep
Others
Total
Sriganganagar
6,36,702
2,00,125
303487
233917
9081
13,83,312
Hanumangarh
5,44,264
3,02,203
180537
170021
20143
12,17,168
Total: Rajasthan
1,39,37,630
1,36,93,316
20840203
7903857
425939
5,68,00,945
Note: Others include horse, pony, mule, donkey, camel & pigs.
This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
World-renowned artist Xu Bing’s signature work “Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” set to debut in Hong Kong Xu Bing is internationally recognised as one of the most innovative and influential contemporary artists. Square Word Calligraphy is his created writing form that started in 1993 – English is written to resemble Chinese characters. This unique writing system highlights the diversity and integration of Eastern and Western cultures, aligning with the essence of Hong Kong’s East-meets-West characteristics. Transforming the exhibition space into an interactive classroom, the art installation “Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” created by Xu has been exhibited worldwide, guiding audiences from different cultural backgrounds to learn and write Square Words, enjoy the fun of traditional Chinese art, and expand creativity through switching between languages.
“Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” is set to debut in Hong Kong. Xu has specially incorporated Hong Kong’s unique linguistic features, such as greetings and idioms, in the “Eying East, Wondering West – Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” exhibition at the HKMoA. This enriches the meaning and interpretation of Square Word Calligraphy, opening new avenues for cross-cultural and cross-language communication.
The exhibition invites audiences to explore Square Word Calligraphy from three perspectives: appreciation, learning, and application. In addition to showcasing new Square Word Calligraphy works, the classroom at the HKMoA includes writing tools and copybooks for learning and attempting this special writing system. With digital technology, audiences can apply what they have learned by creating words with Square Word Calligraphy. The exhibition will run from March 26 to July 30 at The Wing (Lower), G/F, HKMoA, and will move to the Oil Street Art Space in North Point from September 29 to January 11 next year. Admission is free.
Apart from the exhibition at museums, the LCSD also collaborates with MTRCL to present “Loping and Looking – Art in MTR”, which will display Xu’s new creations at four MTR stations from March 26 to September 25. Xu will initiate dialogues with the public by writing the greeting “Long time no see”, presented in the form of Square Word Calligraphy, at Sheung Wan Station and present the station names of Admiralty, Exhibition Centre, and Wan Chai with his new writing system, integrating art into the passenger journey. This also marks the first global display of Xu Bing’s creations in public transportation spaces.
Singapore and India have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to cooperate on maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation. The LOl was inked by Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore andShriR. Lakshmanan, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ports. Shipping and Waterways ( (MOPSW) of India, and witnessed by Dri Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and Ministry of Transport Singapore, andShriSarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports Shipping and Waterways of India.
Under the LOl, both sides will collaborate on maritime digitalisationanddecarbonisation projects, including identifying relevant stakeholders who could contribute to the effort, and work towards formalising the partnership through a memorandum of understanding on a Singapore-India Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).
India is a leading player in information technology with the potential to become a major producer and exporter of green marine fuels. Singapore, as a key transshipment and bunkering hub, also supports a dynamic research and innovation ecosystem.
The Singapore-India GDSC, when established, will enhance collaboration from both countries and help accelerate the development and uptake of zero or near-zeroGreenhouse Gas (GHG)emission technologies and the adoption of digital solutions.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Appeal for information on missing man in Tsuen Wan (with photo) He is about 1.7 metres tall, 70 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a round face with yellow complexion and and short black hair. He was last seen wearing a green jacket, an orange top, dark-coloured trousers, black slippers and carrying a black rucksack and an orange recycle bag.Issued at HKT 14:56
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Person in custody commits suicide by hanging at Hei Ling Chau Correctional Institution At 4.59am today, a correctional officer found that the person in custody had committed suicide by hanging with towels tied to the grille bars of his cell. The officer immediately called for reinforcement to provide first-aid treatment, and a helicopter was summoned to send the person in custody to a public hospital for rescue. He was subsequently certified dead at 5.51am.
The Correctional Services Department has reported the case to the Police. A death inquest will be held by the Coroner’s Court.
The deceased was sentenced to imprisonment for the offence of trafficking in a dangerous drug in November 2016. Issued at HKT 15:00
Department of Consumer Affairs, GoI invites applications for filling up of two vacancies in National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission Application invited only in online mode; last date of submission is 23rd April, 2025
Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:33PM by PIB Delhi
The Department of Consumer Affairs under Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has invited applications to fill up two anticipated vacancies for the post of Members in the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, which is a quasi-judicial body established under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The Commission is headquartered in New Delhi.
The Department of Consumer Affairs has invited application only through Online Mode.
The qualifications, eligibility, salary and other terms and conditions of the appointment of a candidate will be governed by the provisions of the Tribunal Reforms Act and the Tribunal (Conditions of Service) Rules, 2021.
The Search-Cum-Selection Committee constituted under the Tribunal Reforms Act 2021 for recommending names for appointment to the said post shall scrutinize the applications with respect to the suitability of application for the posts by giving due weightage to qualification and experience of candidates and shortlist candidates for conducting personal interaction. The final selection will be done on the basis of overall evaluation of candidates done by the Committee based on the qualification, experience and personal interaction.
The Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021, the Tribunals (conditions of service) Rules, 2021 and the Consumer Protection (Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions) Rules are also placed on the Ministry’s website “www.consumeraffairs.nic.in” for ready reference.
Applications of eligible and willing candidates are requested online through https://jagograhakjago.gov.in/ncdrc from 25.03.2025 onwards. The last date of receipt of applications is 23.04.2025. Wherever applicable, a copy of the application submitted online may be submitted through proper channel along-with prescribed documents to Under Secretary (CPU), Department of Consumer Affairs, Room No. 466-A, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi by 23rd April, 2025.