New Delhi, Woman Times Desk: In a significant and controversial ruling, the Supreme Court has ordered the removal of all street dogs from Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The directive, which sets a tight six to eight-week deadline, comes as a direct response to a rise in dog bite incidents and rabies-related fatalities. The decision aims to tackle the long-standing challenge of managing the street dogs population in India’s major cities.
The order has drawn a clear line, separating public opinion. For many Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and local residents, this directive is a welcome relief. They see it as a necessary step to protect citizens, especially children and the elderly, who are often the most vulnerable to attacks. Their support highlights the genuine safety concerns that have been building up over time.
On the other hand, the ruling has been met with strong criticism from animal rights activists and organizations. They argue that the plan is both unfeasible and inhumane. Leaders like former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi point out the immense logistical challenge of finding and funding shelters for the hundreds of thousands of street dogs in the region.
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Instead of mass removal, these groups advocate for humane and effective alternatives. They champion the use of comprehensive sterilization and vaccination programs, which are scientifically proven to be a more sustainable way to control the dog population and reduce the risk of rabies. The debate over this issue showcases the difficult balance between ensuring public safety and maintaining ethical animal welfare standards.
