Raigad police prevented an illegal horse race in Karjat’s Khadyachapada village, organized under the guidance of the local MLA, after PETA India intervened. The race was supposed to have cash prizes for winners ranging up to Rs31,000, but was successfully prevented by the police with the help of PETA India.

Horse races are considered cruel as they force animals to endure extreme physical strain, often causing injury, exhaustion, and even death. Horses used for racing are forced to sprint through whippings and weapons at speeds that frequently cause injuries. PETA India commended Raigad Police for upholding the law and protecting the horses from abuse.

In 2016, the Rajasthan High Court prohibited tonga races in Rajasthan after a report from the Animal Welfare Board of India highlighted the cruelty horses face during races. PETA India had also successfully prevented a similar illegal horse race at Dahanu Beach earlier this month after notifying Palghar police.