ITANAGAR, Nov 5: Arunachal Pradesh Police have filed an FIR against artist Kon Waii Son, who recently killed a chicken by slitting its throat and drank its blood as part of a performance in Itanagar.
The FIR, lodged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act 1960, was registered at Itanagar Police Station on Monday following a complaint by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India.
Kon Waii Son, a songwriter, composer and musician from Seppa in East Kameng district, conducted the act on October 28, sparking significant controversy in Itanagar. A video of the incident circulated on social media, leading to widespread criticism of the artist.
“If you’re an artist who feels the need to resort to such tactics like cruelty to animals, then it’s time to consider another job. Real artists rely on their talent to get noticed,” says PETA India Cruelty Response Coordinator Sinchana Subramanyan.
“We thank the officer-in-charge of Itanagar police station, Khiksi Yangfo, for filing the FIR. This sends a clear message that animal abuse is unacceptable,” Subramanyan further added.
PETA India, which champions animal welfare, urged authorities to mandate psychiatric evaluations and counseling for those who commit acts of animal cruelty, noting that such behavior can signal deeper psychological issues.
Citing research from Forensic Research & Criminology International Journal, PETA India highlighted that individuals who engage in animal cruelty are at a higher risk of committing violent crimes against people, including assault and harassment. PETA has also called for amendments to the PCA Act, recommending harsher penalties for acts of animal abuse.
