The government is being urged by stakeholders and the majority of society not to proceed with the controversial Livestock Bill draft.

New Delhi, june 20 (Anupma/VNI)The proposed Live-stock and Live-stock Products (Importation and Exportation) Bill, 2023, which aims to facilitate the export of live animals, has evoked strong emotional responses from various stakeholders,animal rights activists and particularly the Jain society who beleives in vegetarianism. Notably, on June 7, 2023, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying (MoFAHD) issued a notification inviting comments and suggestions on the Draft Live-Stock and Live-Stock Products [Importation and Exportation] Bill, 2023.

The draft of the bill presents an unexpected aspect by defining cattle and animals as commodities, thereby granting them legal recognition for exportation. This particular definition contradicts the principles and spirit of the Constitution, as emphasized by an animal welfare expert. If this provision is passed, it would permit the export of live cattle as if they were mere products. The bill encompasses a wide range of animals, including donkeys, horses, mules, cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, pigs, dogs, cats, birds, laboratory animals, aquatic animals, and any other species that may be specified by the Central government periodically.

If passed into law, the proposed bill will supersede the well-established Livestock Importation Act of 1898, which underwent an amendment in 2001 known as the Livestock Import (Amendment) Act. The current plan is to repeal the existing act, paving the way for the new legislation.
It is noteworthy to mention that the opposition against the bill has garnered substantial traction on various online platforms, including social media. A widespread movement, encompassing individuals from diverse backgrounds such as cricketer Kapil Dev, actress Zeenat Aman, Divy Seth, Kittu Gidwani, Jaya Bhattcharya, and others, has united to express their objections. Animal lovers and activists have actively shared their opinions on social media, leading to the trending hashtag 'Say No To Live-Stock Bill' on Twitter in no time. This digital mobilization reflects the growing collective voice of those concerned about the potential ramifications of the proposed bill.
The concerns and protests against the export of meat from India have been voiced by members of the Jain community, animal lovers, and Jain munis across the nation. This discontentment is particularly evident among influential spiritual leaders within the community. One prominent Jain Muni, Shri Sudhasagar Ji Maharaj, has strongly opposed the draft of the proposed bill put forth by the Central Government. He expressed his disappointment, stating that such a decision was unexpected from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is well-known for his vegetarian lifestyle. Muni Shri Sudhasagar Ji Maharaj earnestly appealed to the government to immediately withdraw this decision. He emphasized the efforts of Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj, a respected proponent of non-violence, who has been actively advocating for vegetarianism and compassionate treatment of animals throughout India.Acharya Shrut Sagar ji, Revered Gyanmati mataji revered saints from different sects are also made a strong appeal to prompptly revoke this decision 
The proposal to export live animals has caused profound distress among the Jain society, Jain saints, scholars, and animal lovers. Jain Muni Shri Abhaysagar Ji Maharaj has actively called for strong opposition to this proposed act. He firmly believes that not only the Jain community but also the entire vegetarian community across the country should come together to vehemently oppose it. The bill's enactment would undeniably have a detrimental impact on the welfare of animals nationwide. A representative leader from the Jain society has appealed to the government to reconsider its decision. In response to this concern, the Jain society and animal lovers from all corners of India have collectively expressed their protest by submitting a memorandum to the government, voicing their opposition to the proposed bill.
Former Union Minister Pradeep Jain Aditya has expressed deep concern regarding the potential far-reaching consequences of exporting live animals, particularly on the national animal wealth. He emphasizes the need for amendments to be made to the proposed bill and strongly advocates against rushing its passage. Aditya underlines the significance of the government thoroughly reconsidering the implications of this decision, taking into account the welfare of animals and the broader impact on the nation's biodiversity.
In the face of growing opposition, animal rights activists and concerned citizens remain steadfast in their endeavors to challenge the "Live Animal Import/Export Bill 2023." They stress the importance of the government reassessing its stance and placing the well-being of all living beings at the forefront. The contentious nature of this bill continues to fuel an ongoing debate that shows no signs of diminishing, with a resounding public outcry echoing throughout the nation, demanding compassion and fairness towards animals.