The CZA, which has been monitoring circuses that houses elephants in captivity since 2003, has de-recognised all but one circus previously recognised by it due to “extreme cruelty and owing to violation of rules under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972”.
Prashanth V, a senior functionary of the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO), said apart from those under the CZA, the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has another 35 circuses under it while the total number, including the illegal ones, will be higher.
“The CZA has also made it clear that it supports a ban on other performing animals and it has already urged the AWBI to initiate steps in this regard,” he said.
