Animal Cruelty Response Officer at People for Animals (PFA), New Delhi
People for Animals (PFA), India’s largest and most recognized animal welfare organization, is currently hiring for the role of Animal Cruelty Response Officer. This is a full-time, in-house legal position based at PFA’s national headquarters in Jor Bagh, New Delhi.
Since its founding, PFA has led the fight for animal rights and welfare in India. With a nationwide network of shelters, emergency helplines, and legal initiatives, the organization works tirelessly to protect animals from abuse, neglect, and cruelty. As an Animal Cruelty Response Officer, you will play a key legal and operational role in responding to animal cruelty cases and ensuring enforcement of animal protection laws across Delhi and surrounding areas.
If you are a legal professional passionate about justice, welfare, and creating impact through advocacy, this is an opportunity to turn your skills into meaningful change.
Key Responsibilities
As an Animal Cruelty Response Officer, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Investigating cruelty complaints: Respond to reports of abuse, neglect, or violence against animals (primarily companion or community animals). This involves site visits, documentation, and preliminary inquiry.
- Coordinating with authorities: Work with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), police departments, veterinary officers, and municipal corporations to ensure enforcement of animal welfare laws.
- Providing legal support: Draft legal notices, assist with filing complaints and FIRs under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, IPC provisions, or municipal by-laws, and help prepare case files for legal action.
- Assisting in emergency rescue and response: Liaise with local veterinarians and shelters to arrange medical aid, rescue operations, or foster placement for injured or distressed animals.
- Conducting public awareness programs: Organize and participate in awareness drives to educate citizens, law enforcement officers, and community members about animal rights and welfare laws.
- Legal research and documentation: Maintain detailed case files, track the progress of complaints, and assist in preparing reports for internal use or government submissions.
- Collaborating with partner organizations: Work with other animal NGOs, citizen volunteers, legal aid groups, and civic bodies to strengthen the cruelty response network.
This is a highly impactful legal and advocacy role requiring both legal knowledge and field engagement.
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are looking for a dedicated individual with the following qualifications and qualities:
- Bachelor’s degree in Law (LL.B.) from a recognized university in India
- Prior experience in animal welfare, criminal law, or legal rights advocacy, either in a professional or voluntary capacity
- A solid understanding of India’s legal framework for animal protection, including:
- The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
- Indian Penal Code provisions relating to cruelty and mischief
- Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2023
- Wildlife Protection Act (where applicable)
- Strong drafting and communication skills, including the ability to write complaints, notices, and legal summaries
- Ability to build relationships with law enforcement officers, civic agencies, and local stakeholders
- Self-motivation, empathy for animals, and resilience to handle emotionally challenging cases
This position is best suited for someone who is passionate about animal rights and committed to using the law as a tool for social and ethical change.
Work Location and Schedule
- Office Location: People for Animals, Jor Bagh, New Delhi – 110003
- Work Schedule:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (on-site)
- Saturday: Remote (Work-from-home)
- Position Type: Full-time, in-house legal role
You will work directly under the guidance of the PFA legal team and in coordination with emergency response and outreach units.
Why Join PFA?
People for Animals offers a mission-driven workplace where your legal skills can make a real difference. As an Animal Cruelty Response Officer, you will be at the frontline of justice for voiceless beings. Some benefits of working with PFA include:
- The chance to influence animal welfare policy through case precedents and advocacy
- Opportunities for public interest litigation and legal awareness initiatives
- Collaboration with national and international animal welfare bodies
- Experience in both preventive law and emergency fieldwork
- A compassionate, collaborative work culture driven by ethical values
Working at PFA allows you to grow both professionally and personally while creating measurable impact.
Application Deadline
This position is open on a rolling basis. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should email the following documents to gandhim@exmpls.sansad.in:
- Your updated CV
- A brief cover letter (150–250 words) explaining:
- Why you are interested in the Animal Cruelty Response Officer role
- Relevant legal or animal welfare experience
- Any previous advocacy, outreach, or litigation in the domain
Use the email subject line:
Application – Animal Cruelty Response Officer
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview, which may include a written assessment or legal scenario-based task.
