The latest season of Bigg Boss 18 kicked off with excitement as 18 contestants, including popular names like Vivian Dsena, Alice Kaushik, and Karanvir Mehra, entered the show. However, the unexpected introduction of ‘Gadhraj’, a real donkey, as the 19th contestant has stirred controversy. Animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India has expressed concern, highlighting potential mistreatment and calling for immediate action.
PETA’s Response to Gadhraj’s Entry
PETA India has voiced its disapproval over the presence of Gadhraj, a donkey, in the Bigg Boss house. The animal welfare organization sent a letter to the show’s makers, criticizing the inclusion of an animal for entertainment purposes. The organization’s Advocacy Associate, Shaurya Aggarwal, explained that they’ve been receiving complaints from viewers who are upset about Gadhraj’s treatment. The letter urges the show’s team to take these concerns seriously, emphasizing that such use of animals should not be taken lightly.
PETA’s Appeal to Salman Khan
In the letter addressed to the show’s host, Salman Khan, PETA has requested him to use his influence and act in the donkey’s best interest. They have suggested that the animal should be handed over to PETA, which would ensure Gadhraj is transferred to a sanctuary. The organization highlighted that the sanctuary would provide a safe space for the donkey, alongside other rescued animals.
Audience Reactions on Social Media
Since Gadhraj entered into the show, social media users have voiced mixed opinions. Some viewers consider the inclusion of an animal on the show as nothing more than a joke, while others are concerned about the animal’s well-being. Many users pointed out that donkeys are social animals, and keeping one in a confined space for entertainment could be harmful. These reactions have further fueled the ongoing debate about the ethics of involving animals in reality TV.
Contestants Responsible for Gadhraj’s Care
During the grand premiere, Salman Khan introduced Gadhraj as the 19th contestant and announced that the housemates would be responsible for taking care of him. Throughout the show, contestants are expected to look after the donkey’s needs, which include feeding and cleaning up after him. However, this element of the show has raised eyebrows, especially among animal welfare groups like PETA.
PETA Criticizes the Use of Animals for Entertainment
In their letter, PETA made it clear that the use of animals for entertainment purposes is outdated and unethical. The organization believes that the participation of an animal in a high-stress environment, such as the Bigg Boss house, could have a detrimental impact on its well-being. They stressed that animals deserve to live in their natural environment or sanctuaries where they can be cared for properly.
PETA’s Stand on Animal Rights
PETA has a long history of fighting for animal rights, and the Bigg Boss incident is just the latest in a series of campaigns aimed at protecting animals from exploitation. Their main argument is that animals, like Gadhraj, are sentient beings that deserve to live free from unnecessary stress or harm. By involving an animal in a reality show, the producers are exposing it to potential mistreatment, which goes against the principles of ethical treatment.
With growing concerns from viewers and animal rights activists, it remains to be seen how the makers of Bigg Boss will respond to PETA’s appeal and whether Salman Khan will intervene to ensure better care for Gadhraj.
