Hyderabad: Donkey slaughter has alarmingly increased in numerous parts of Andhra Pradesh as a result of the rising demand for donkey meat and the myth that eating it increases one's virility and stamina. Donkeys are being butchered on roads in various areas of AP, sometimes even by young children.
According to experts, it is preposterous to think that eating donkey flesh can increase virility; a diet high in meat can actually disrupt blood flow and result in erectile dysfunction. The butchers spread falsehoods to market the donkey meat for alleged health benefits, yet plants, not meat, provide strength, say experts.
Following an undercover investigation, PETA claimed that "illegal donkey slaughter and sale is widespread in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in Ongole, Tadepalle, Vijayawada, Chirala, and Bapatla." Dr. Kiran Ahuja,
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA India), manager of Vegan Products, said, “Donkeys are smart and sensitive animals. They are being hacked on roadsides, sometimes even by children, to fuel the demand created by myths. In a span of seven years, the donkey population has decreased by 61%. According to the 2019 Livestock Census, there are 1.2 lakh donkeys in existence. Killing donkeys is illegal in India according to Sections 3 and 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and Sections 428 and 429 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. People who kill donkeys can face a maximum five-year prison sentence, a fine, or both.”
Ahuja said the adults were exposing children to this “gory act” of killing donkeys and “desensitizing them to violence”. In addition, stray dogs were consuming the donkeys’ leftover meat and making a mess of the surroundings. “A police officer was shown in a video buying donkey flesh rather than curbing such killings. Donkeys are transported late at night to evade the police and reach slaughter sites early in the morning,” Ahuja said
“Doctors advise eating plant-based food, not meat, for those looking for health benefits. Vegans are at reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and certain types of cancer,” he added.
