What Actions Are Political Parties Taking Against the Stray Dog Crisis?
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Synopsis
The stray dog crisis in Maharashtra has sparked significant concern among political leaders. With rising numbers posing threats, both ruling and opposition parties are demanding urgent actions, including the establishment of more ABC centers. Discover the measures being proposed in response to this pressing issue.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent action is needed to address the stray dog crisis.
- Only eight ABC centers are available for a large stray dog population in Mumbai.
- New guidelines have been established for capturing and vaccinating stray dogs.
- Local governments are actively involved in managing the stray dog situation.
- Public safety is a growing concern among political representatives.
Nagpur, Dec 9 (NationPress) Members from both the ruling and opposition parties in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly raised significant concerns about the stray dog crisis affecting urban and rural regions, insisting on immediate and decisive action.
They argued that the current actions are insufficient and called for urgent measures, including the creation of Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers and shelters.
Minister of State for Urban Development, Madhuri Misal, addressed the assembly in response to a motion presented by BJP legislator Atul Bhatkhalkar and others, stating that the department has sanctioned the execution of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Care and Maintenance of Case Property Animals) Rules, 2017, as well as the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2023 across all Municipal Corporations and the 93 Municipal Councils/Nagar Panchayats.
She added that a State-level Animal Birth Control Monitoring Committee (ABCMC) has been set up, chaired by the Principal Secretary of the Urban Development Department.
Furthermore, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for executing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) initiative, along with guidelines to tackle stray dog issues, has been formulated.
The implementation of this SOP is being coordinated with the Animal Husbandry Department and the Animal Welfare Board of India.
Misal emphasized that local self-governments (Municipal Corporations/Councils/Nagar Panchayats) are actively striving to lessen the stray dog population and successfully implement sterilization and anti-rabies vaccination programs in collaboration with the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI).
In accordance with the directives from the Supreme Court regarding stray dogs, instructions were circulated to all Municipal Corporations/Municipal Councils/Nagar Panchayats in the state on November 24, 2025.
These directives pertain to capturing, sterilizing, vaccinating, and deworming stray dogs, providing shelter for them, establishing designated feeding spots, and ensuring a sufficient supply of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) and Immunoglobulin at hospitals.
Bhatkhalkar previously noted that although the number of stray dogs in Mumbai totals 90,757, there are merely eight ABC centers, resulting in one center for every 10,000 stray dogs, which is grossly inadequate.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena UBT legislator Sunil Prabhu voiced concerns that stray dogs could pose a threat to elected representatives as they navigate their constituencies to address various matters. Shiv Sena legislator Prakash Surve also highlighted the daily increase in stray dog numbers in Mumbai, urging for more substantial efforts to manage the situation.
Point of View
It is evident that the issue of stray dogs transcends political lines, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach. The increasing stray dog population is a pressing matter that necessitates swift, effective actions from local governments and communities alike. A comprehensive strategy is essential to ensure public safety and animal welfare.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being done about the stray dog population in Maharashtra?
Political leaders are calling for the establishment of more Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers and shelter homes to address the growing stray dog issue.
How many ABC centers are there in Mumbai?
Currently, Mumbai has only eight ABC centers despite a stray dog population exceeding 90,757, which is deemed insufficient.
What measures are included in the new directives?
The directives include capturing, sterilizing, vaccinating, and deworming stray dogs, providing shelters, and ensuring a stock of Anti-Rabies Vaccine.
Who oversees the implementation of these measures?
The implementation of these measures is overseen by a State-level Animal Birth Control Monitoring Committee (ABCMC) in collaboration with the Animal Welfare Board of India.
Are there any safety concerns regarding stray dogs?
Yes, some representatives have expressed concerns about the potential threat stray dogs pose to elected officials while they are in their constituencies.
