I am writing to bring your attention to a deeply concerning issue of animal cruelty in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, particularly regarding the treatment of horses used as a mode of transportation to reach the holy site.

Kedarnath holds immense religious significance and attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims during its peak season. While the devotion and faith of these individuals are commendable, it is distressing to witness the inhumane treatment of horses that serve as a means to facilitate their journey.

In recent times, numerous videos have surfaced on social media platforms, depicting alarming instances of animal cruelty inflicted upon these horses. The owners, driven by profit and a disregard for the welfare of these animals, subject them to severe pain and exhaustion by making them work relentlessly. Shockingly, even pregnant horses are forced to endure such hardships, posing a significant risk to their health and the well-being of their unborn foals.

Equally troubling is the widespread use of intoxicants, such as weed, to suppress the pain experienced by these horses. This practice not only raises ethical concerns but also poses serious health risks to the animals involved. It is our moral duty to protect these creatures and ensure their well-being, especially in an environment that is considered sacred by many.

To address this urgent issue, I implore the authorities to take immediate action and explore the following measures:

• Introduction of a Relay Method: Encourage the adoption of a relay system where the entire distance to Kedarnath is covered by multiple horses, with each horse completing only a portion of the journey. This approach would significantly reduce the strain on individual horses, allowing them ample rest and recovery time.
  
  
• Strict Regulations and Monitoring: Enforce stringent regulations and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that horse owners comply with ethical treatment standards. Regular inspections and surprise checks should be conducted to identify instances of animal cruelty and hold the offenders accountable for their actions.
  
  
• Collaboration with Government and Animal Welfare Organizations: Collaborate with the government, local authorities, and reputable animal welfare organizations, such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), to create awareness campaigns, provide training sessions on humane treatment practices, and establish helplines to report instances of animal abuse. It is crucial to foster a culture of compassion and empathy towards animals.
  
  
• Education and Awareness Programs: Launch educational initiatives that highlight the importance of animal welfare and responsible tourism. Tourists and pilgrims should be informed about the ethical considerations involved in using horses as a mode of transportation. This awareness will promote informed decision-making and encourage individuals to opt for alternative means of reaching Kedarnath, such as walking or using eco-friendly modes of transport.

We, the undersigned, urge you to take immediate action and implement these proposed measures to prevent further acts of animal cruelty in Kedarnath. It is essential that the government and concerned authorities demonstrate their commitment to protecting the welfare of these horses and preserving the sanctity of this holy place.

By signing this petition, we stand united in our demand for change and our unwavering belief in the compassionate treatment of all living beings. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that Kedarnath remains a place of devotion and reverence, where animals are treated with kindness and respect.