Kolkata : Three recent First Information Reports (FIRs) related to alleged horse cruelty in Kolkata have prompted PETA India to call on the West Bengal government to replace horse-drawn tourist carriages with heritage-style electric vehicles. The appeal also follows the recent death of an 18-year-old Indian tourist in a horse-carriage accident in New York City.
According to PETA India, the proposed transition would protect animals, improve public safety, and preserve Kolkata’s historic charm through modern electric carriages similar to those introduced in Mumbai.
The appeal comes after three separate incidents reported in June. On June 10, a young foal was seen running through traffic in the Hastings area, creating danger for both commuters and the animal. On June 15, another horse was found in Hastings with severe injuries and a long-neglected hoof condition. The horse was rescued by PETA India and shifted to a sanctuary for emergency veterinary treatment. On June 21, a mare suffering from a serious forelimb fracture reportedly collapsed at the busy Mayurbhanj–D.H. Road crossing in Ekbalpur and later died without receiving veterinary care.
Following PETA India’s intervention, FIRs were registered in all three cases—two at Hastings Police Station and one at Ekbalpur Police Station—under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
PETA India also cited the recent death of Indian tourist Romanch Mahajan in a horse-carriage incident in New York City, stating that the tragedy has renewed concerns over the safety of horse-drawn carriage operations. The organisation noted that New York City’s new mayor has expressed support for ending the practice.
The animal rights body said Mumbai has already replaced horse-drawn tourist carriages with heritage-style electric alternatives, helping preserve the city’s heritage while providing alternative livelihoods to carriage operators. It added that manufacturers, including Mumbai-based Ubo Ridez and several electric vehicle companies in West Bengal, are willing to supply similar e-carriages for Kolkata.
According to PETA India, horses used for tourist rides around Victoria Memorial are often found malnourished, anaemic, injured, or overworked. The organisation also claimed that at least 16 horses in Kolkata have reportedly died since 2024 due to road accidents and other injuries.
PETA India further warned that horses kept in unhygienic conditions with poor immunity could be vulnerable to diseases such as glanders, which can also pose risks to humans.
The organisation also referred to a May 9, 2024, order of the Calcutta High Court, which directed the state government to examine the feasibility of rehabilitating horse owners and exploring alternatives similar to Mumbai’s mechanised carriage model.
PETA India has urged the West Bengal government to adopt a similar system, arguing that heritage-style electric carriages would enhance animal welfare, improve tourist safety, and provide a sustainable future for carriage operators
