My family and I took a trip to Kedarnath June of 2026 and witnessed the brutal abuse of working horses along the yatra. Although we tried to speak up, many including the police dismissed our statements. Horses were hit on the back legs with all sorts of objects by the handlers, with some handlers having belts in their hands. We witnessed a horse kicked violently on their side when they tried to sit and another that was only let to drink water for around ten seconds. Others were forced to carry heavy equipment that impeded their ability to raise their heads, and some equipment was so heavy that two men were seen struggling to lift it onto the horse. Many horses were covered in skin wounds, most consistent to where the saddle and straps sit.

Many of these horses are in need of immediate medical attention which is not possible without proper policies and handlers that are held accountable for the lives of the horses. 

The government of India and Uttarakhand claims to have policies in place to stop this treatment towards the horses, but it is clear from our experience that these policies are not being followed through and carried out. Many include,

• Mandatory veterinary health checks throughout the trek.
• Restrictions on how much a horse can carry.
• Limitations on how much and for how long the horses can walk.
• Monitoring of animal welfare and licensure along trek by government staff.
• Consequences must be placed on those who do not follow policy which include but are not limited to suspension of license and police charges.

We urge the government to take accountability and show evidence that the existing laws are being implemented. It is appalling to see how these voiceless animals are being treated and forced to work brutal conditions on such sacred land.

We also push the government of Uttarakhand to have resources for tourist education to recognize animal cruelty including,

• Mandatory videos/information sessions during Sri Kedarnath Yatra registration 
• Resources on how to report handlers for mistreatment of horses that are easily accessible, such as on Yatra registration and along trek
• Hotlines and stations along trek to report any animal neglect 

Support this petition to help us gain the government's audience and make the lives of the horses of Sri Kedarnath better. After completing this yatra ourselves, it is clear to see how the trek's dangerous conditions and mental exhaustion can impact the lives of these horses.