Archive · 2 Oct 2026
140 Spiked Bits Seized From Tourist Horses in Katra
Officials found 140 sharp metal bits being used with horses in Katra and Shiv Khori.
Some of the horses carried tourists or goods.
The bits can hurt horses’ mouths, lips and tongues.
The Animal Husbandry Department and PETA India carried out the enforcement drive.
They took away the painful bits.
They replaced them with smooth bits that do not have spikes.
Officials said using spiked bits is prohibited under animal welfare rules.
They also encouraged people to use vehicles or other alternatives instead of horses when possible.
The Animal Husbandry Department seized 140 metal spiked bits in Katra and Shiv Khori.
Officials said the bits were allegedly used on horses involved in tourist rides and goods transport.
The devices can cause pain and injuries to animals’ gums, lips and tongues.
The seizure took place during an awareness and enforcement drive at Katra’s Veterinary Dispensary.
Officials replaced the spiked bits with smooth ones and cited a 1965 rule prohibiting their use.
- Who
- The Animal Husbandry Department, Jammu, with support from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India, carried out the seizure.
- What
- Officials seized 140 metal spiked bits allegedly used to control horses and other working animals.
- When
- The action was reported on October 1; the article identifies the day as Thursday but gives no year.
- Where
- The seizure occurred in Katra and Shiv Khori, with the enforcement drive held at the Veterinary Dispensary in Katra.
- Why
- Officials said the devices can injure animals and their use is prohibited under Rule 8 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Draught and Pack Animals Rules, 1965.
- Items seized
- 140 metal spiked bits
- Locations
- Katra and Shiv Khori
- Animals involved
- Horses, mules and other draught and pack animals
- Seizing agency
- Animal Husbandry Department, Jammu
- Supporting organisation
- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India
- Legal provision
- Rule 8 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Draught and Pack Animals Rules, 1965
- Replacement devices
- Smooth, painless bits