Puri, March 3: As celebrations of the festival of colors, Holi, gain momentum across the state, environmental and social activist Sushant Sahu has voiced serious concerns over the safety of stray animals.

In a press statement, he highlighted that throwing colors or color-mixed water on stray dogs, cows, and other animals roaming streets can lead to severe skin diseases and eye problems. He warned that chemical-laden colors can even be fatal, and incidents of animal deaths during the festival have been reported in the past.

Mr. Sahu pointed out that under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCA Act, 1960) and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, such acts constitute punishable offenses, with provisions for fines and imprisonment.

He appealed to the public to refrain from harming innocent animals in the name of celebration and urged communities to create awareness and show sensitivity towards animals. Emphasizing the moral duty of protecting voiceless creatures, he stated that safeguarding animals is crucial for maintaining ecological balance.