More than 18,000 people have signed a petition opposing the Centre’s proposed laboratory animal rules, according to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. The campaign has received support from celebrities, politicians, scientists, veterinarians and animal welfare organisations.
The proposed Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Control and Supervision of Experiment, Breeding and Trading of Laboratory Animals) Rules, 2026, are intended to replace the existing Breeding of and Experiments on Animals (Control and Supervision) Rules.
PETA India has raised concerns that the draft rules, if notified in their current form, could weaken safeguards for animals used in laboratory experiments.
According to the organisation, the proposed framework could increase the capture and use of protected wildlife for research. It could also allow community dogs and cats to be used in laboratories under specified circumstances.
Several well-known personalities have reportedly signed the petition, including actors John Abraham, Tabu, Hema Malini, Raveena Tandon, Shilpa Shetty, Jacqueline Fernandez, Dia Mirza, Rupali Ganguly and Wamiqa Gabbi. Cricketer K.L. Rahul has also endorsed the appeal, PETA India said in a statement.
The petition calls for the withdrawal of the proposed rules, reflecting concerns among animal welfare advocates about the possible impact on existing protections.
The debate highlights the need to balance scientific research with animal welfare. The final impact will depend on the provisions adopted if the draft rules move forward.
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