Feeding of stray cats

Dear Client,
Article 51(A) of the Constitution of India makes it a fundamental duty of every Indian citizen to respect and have compassion for all forms of life. Not allowing pets in an apartment complex or housing society is considered to be a direct violation of the Constitution of India. The right to keep a pet outlined in Article 51 (G) of the Constitution grants every citizen of India the right to choose to live with or without a companion animal. So, for infringement of the constitutional right, a pet owner can file a civil suit before the Court for violation of the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1960). The Supreme Court has upheld the right of citizens to feed strays, and the Animal Welfare Board of India has guidelines stating that Builders/RWAs cannot deny feeding or designated feeding spots without the consent of the feeders and they can face legal action if they issue illegal orders or intimidate residents who feed stray cats or dogs in society. No laws exist to prohibit the feeding of stray animals and protect animal feeders from harassment. You can seek help from NGO's who render dedicated service for animal welfare to resolve the issue.

Dear Client,
As a tenant living in a duplex, you enjoy legal privileges and cannot be harassed by neighbours concerning feeding stray cats. In line with the provisions of the Transfer of Property Act, 1882, as well as the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), you have a right to use your rented premises without interference. To overcome harassment first calmly address your neighbours and politely ask them to cease the intimidation. If the harassment goes on for a long time, it may be wise to send them a formal notice through a lawyer, detailing the laws against harassment and the legal actions that may follow. It would be wise to document the harassment incidents that you have faced and the dates as well as details these will come in handy if you make a complaint.

In India you can file a complaint with the local police under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), sections such as 349 (criminal intimidation) [previously, section 506 of IPC] and 327 [previously, section 448 of IPC] (house-trespass). Moreover, go to local municipal authorities and tell them that you can feed strays based on the Animal Welfare Board of India recommendation. If things do not change you could bring a lawsuit against your neighbours under the tort of harassment and then obtain an order restraining the neighbour from further interfering. Furthermore, you can report the matter to the Rent Control Court or Small Causes Court if your landlord has failed in protecting your rights.
Hope this advice gives you a beneficial result.