Bigg Boss 18: PETA India Objects To Donkey Being Used On The Show, Writes A Letter To Makers

Bigg Boss 18: The much-loved reality show started on October 6 with 18 new contestants, featuring a wide mix group of TV actors, politicians, and social media influencers. However, the 19th contestant sparked the most interest among viewers. For the first time, Bigg Boss brought an actual animal, a donkey named Gadhraj into the house. This move has received mixed reactions from the audience, as well as the animal welfare organisation PETA.

PETA India urges Bigg Boss to not use animals for entertainment

During the grand premiere, an actual donkey was introduced to the show, and the contestants were given the responsibility of caring for it while it stayed in the house. While some viewers found the donkey's presence amusing, others argued that it is unfair to confine a social animal like a donkey in the Bigg Boss house.

On Wednesday, October 9, Shaurya Agrawal, an advocacy associate at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, wrote to the makers of Bigg Boss 18, expressing concerns about the donkey's involvement in the show. "We are being inundated with complaints by members of the public who are deeply distressed over the keeping of a donkey in the Bigg Boss house. Their concerns are valid and must not be ignored," the letter stated. Describing the situation as 'distressing,' PETA India urged the host to use his influence as the host and star to 'surrender the donkey to PETA India, to rehome in a sanctuary with other rescued donkeys.'

PETA tells Bigg Boss 18 makers ‘use of animals on a show set is no laughing matter’

The letter also states that the "use of animals on a show set is no laughing matter" and urges the production team to "avoid using animals as props for entertainment." It mentions that one of the contestants, Advocate Sadavarte, brought the donkey into the house.

With the show recently launched, the competition is heating up each day. This season includes 18 contestants competing for the prestigious winner's trophy, with a significant prize of ₹50 Lakh, the same amount offered in the previous season.