MUMBAI: Bollywood actress Celina Jaitley sent bouquets and a card recently to the commissioner of police Satyapal Singh and DCP (Special Branch) R.P. Sengaonkar, who have been instrumental in banning the use of horses, elephants and camels into the city of Pune.

"Thank you for standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves. All of us from PETA appreciate your efforts and thank you from the bottom of our hearts," Jaitley wrote in the card.

Anuradha Sawhney of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals says, "Humane people around the world are watching India’s treatment of animals. We applaud the Pune officers for taking action and urge other officers to do so, too".

Jaitley and PETA are happy about the ban because these animals like the horses, elephants and camels live a miserable life. They are forced to pull oversized loads and must try to dodge cars, taxis and bicycles. It is not unusual for horses to suffer from untreated injuries, and most horses never see a veterinarian in their lifetime.

Elephants are a common sight on roads and outside temples in the city of Pune.

The camels have been taken out of their desert homes and forced to pull carts and carry people for entertainment. Joyride operators often ignore the animals’ most basic needs.