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Invigorating Compassion for Strays in Urban India
- Kyra Ganapathy
- Oct 13, 2023
- 4 min read
The rapid urbanisation of Indian cities presents a multitude of complex difficulties pertaining to the well-being of street dogs. These challenges, characterised by their multifaceted nature and varying magnitudes, are only beginning to be comprehended. The world’s first survey of Pet Homelessness found that there are an estimated 80 million homeless cats and dogs that are roaming India at any given time. Given that a significant proportion, if not the majority, of these canines rely on human beings for sustenance, it is observed that substantial communities of stray dogs tend to congregate in densely populated human habitats, namely urban areas.
Source: Indian Express
A perusal of several news articles discloses that in anticipation of the forthcoming G20 Summit in September 2023, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and its administrative body initiated a large-scale operation to apprehend stray dogs in different areas of the capital, employing methods that were deemed both brutal and barbaric. Unfortunately, this activity was carried out in defiance of a directive given by the MCD, which according to the Times of India stated, “The action plan issued by the veterinary department regarding picking up of stray dogs is hereby withdrawn with immediate effect.” The municipal authority originally issued an order to collect stray canines from 47 designated areas and relocate them to animal birth control (ABC) facilities for a duration of six weeks. Nevertheless, subsequent to facing substantial criticism from animal rights advocates, the authorities opted to retract the aforementioned notification.
This act of negligence is a contravention of the norms established by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). The Animal Birth Control (ABC) regulations were initially formulated in 2001, with subsequent revisions in 2010 and 2023. These regulations underscore the imperative of implementing widespread spay/neuter initiatives and explicitly prohibit the relocation of dogs. By establishing a framework, the ABC rules serve as a basis for India to embrace a more compassionate approach to managing the canine population. The occurrence of street dogs biting and pursuing residents is undeniably linked to the escalating and unregulated street dog population. In this regard, the implementation of Animal Birth Control measures can undoubtedly contribute to the effective management of street dog populations. Nevertheless, these regulations alone are unable to establish enduring transformation. Human-canine conflicts are likewise anchored in an absence of understanding of how to cohabit harmoniously.
The presence of dogs within human settlements should not be regarded as a recent occurrence, and it is important to recognise that conflicts involving dogs should not be analysed in isolation from external influences. In recent years, there has been a discernible shift in citizens’ attitude of stray dogs. In the past, when they were an inherent component of our metropolitan locations, their presence was considered commonplace. However, in contemporary times, there is an expectation for their absence. Earlier, it was a frequent occurrence to find a dog resting on someone’s patio. However, this has transformed into a prevalent grievance voiced by disgruntled residents of our neighbourhoods. The roads that previously offered sufficient space for dogs to roam freely are now congested with vehicles, necessitating the dogs to adapt to the changing circumstances. Several large cities, such as Gurgaon, Delhi, and Noida, are abuzz with accounts of dogs not only assaulting humans but also being assaulted by them. Nevertheless, it is pertinent to note that the mere removal of the dogs without any other intervention is seldom a sustainable remedy.
In the midst of the ongoing debate surrounding the fate of street dogs, it’s crucial to recognize that these animals are an integral part of our urban landscapes. The key to harmonious coexistence lies in the formulation of a comprehensive, nationwide strategy, implemented in phases, with central support channelled through the states to assist local bodies. This approach ensures that the welfare of both the dogs and the communities is at the forefront of the initiative. While Friendicoes SECA in Delhi NCR has in the last decade single mindedly focused on a successful ABC program, obstacles such as the lack of infrastructure, funds and bureaucratic hurdles have not made it easy to sustain the program.
Top of FormThe theme of the G20 Summit is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or One Earth, One Family, One Future affirming the value of all life - human, animal, plant, and microorganisms - and their interconnectedness on the planet. When we not only exclude stay dogs but remove their existence from our present, what does it say about our future? In light of this, as we envision the development of smart cities, it’s imperative to consider the needs of our four-legged cohabitants. Urban planning should encompass canine-friendly elements, ensuring that these animals can thrive on our streets without the need for removal or relocation. From dedicated spaces for strays to water and food stations, by implementing ABC projects, cities can not only control the population of stray dogs but also improve the quality of their lives.
References
As easy as ABC. (2016, November 15). Friendicoes SECA. https://friendicoes.org/as-easy-as-
Fowler, C. (2022, June 23). 14 India pet ownership statistics to know in 2023. Pet
G20 Summit. (2023). G20 Secretariat, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
Retrieved September 9, 2023, from https://www.g20.org/en/g20-india-2023/new-delhi-
MCD withdraws order to remove stray dogs for G20. (2023, August 6). The Times of India.
“Strays being picked up using nooses for G20, dumped in shelters far away”: Activists. (n.d.).
NDTV.Com. Retrieved September 11, 2023, from https://www.ndtv.com/delhi-
About the author: Kyra is a penultimate year student at Jindal Global Law School. As an aspiring lawyer, she is keenly interested in technology law, artificial intelligence, privacy and data protection.
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