Abstract
Ritualistic animal sacrifice has been practiced throughout the ages regardless of the culture or religion, holding deep spiritual and cultural meaning-it may be a devotional act, an expression of gratitude, or purification. With social evolution in different societies come also changes in how human beings perceive their relationship with animals. As more importance is given to the right treatment of animals, people have started clashing over their traditional beliefs and new understandings related to it. It is one of those issues that over the last few years, has fuelled heated debates and court cases around the globe, throwing societies into some of the most difficult dilemmas related to cultural heritage, religious freedom, and animal welfare.
This paper analyses the legal status of ritual sacrifice of animals from one jurisdiction to another, thereby bringing out the tension that exists between the rights of religious or cultural practitioners and the now-evolving concept of rights for animals. This paper strives to address the question with a balanced view by critically reviewing case law, legislation, and ethical considerations which underpin the argument presented in an effort to attempt to balance legal constructs in governing ritual animal sacrifice with hints on possible ways for reconciliation.
Keywords: animal rights, ritual sacrifice, cultural traditions, legal ethics, animal welfare, legal framework, cultural preservation,ethical considerations, societal attitude, policyrecommendations.