Bollywood celebrities criticize Supreme Court’s directive to remove stray dogs from Delhi-NCR amid public outcry
On August 11, the Supreme Court directed authorities to remove all stray dogs from public spaces in Delhi-NCR, including Gurugram, Noida, and Ghaziabad, following a rise in dog attacks and rabies cases. The order mandates setting up shelters with vaccination and sterilisation facilities, a helpline for dog bite reporting, and CCTV monitoring.
Bollywood Voices Strong Opposition to the Order
Several prominent Bollywood actors have openly criticized the court’s decision, emphasizing the importance of community dogs in Delhi life.
John Abraham’s Urgent Appeal to the Chief Justice of India
- John Abraham wrote to Chief Justice BR Gavai urging a review of the order.
- He highlighted that these “strays” are actually community dogs, considered part of Delhi’s social fabric.
- Abraham pointed out the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, which emphasize sterilization, vaccination, and returning dogs to their original areas instead of displacement.
- He cited successful sterilisation programs in Jaipur (70% dogs sterilised) and Lucknow (84%).
- Abraham warned that displacement could lead to increased aggression, unvaccinated dogs entering areas, and greater public health risks.
- He called for a humane, lawful approach balancing public health and compassion.
Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor’s Instagram Protest
- Both actors described the order as a “death sentence for all dogs.”
- Their posts called attention to the dogs’ right to freedom and humane treatment.
- The message included: “No sunlight. No freedom. No familiar faces greet every morning.”
Vir Das Encourages Adoption of Indie Dogs
- Vir Das urged Delhi residents to adopt street dogs.
- He highlighted indie dogs as low maintenance, healthy, and loving companions.
- Das also appealed for support to animal welfare NGOs during legal proceedings.
- His post featured a photo of his adopted indie dogs with the caption: “Delhi. Do the right thing, please.”
Sanya Malhotra’s Take on Instagram
- Malhotra described stray dogs as part of daily life—guardians, friends to children, and companions.
- She acknowledged safety concerns but opposed caging dogs.
- She advocated for large-scale sterilisation, vaccination, community feeding, and adoption, rather than imprisonment.
What the Supreme Court Directed Next
- Civic authorities must create a 5,000-capacity shelter in Delhi-NCR within 6–8 weeks.
- Shelters must have vaccination and sterilisation facilities.
- CCTV cameras will monitor the shelters.
- A helpline for dog bite reporting will be launched to aid quick response.
The Supreme Court’s directive has sparked a fierce debate between public safety concerns and animal welfare advocates. Bollywood celebrities stand firmly for humane treatment and community coexistence, urging the government and courts to revisit the policy in favor of sterilisation programs and community support for stray dogs.
Also Read : Rahul Gandhi Slams Supreme Court’s Stray Dog Order as ‘Cruel and Shortsighted’
