Vijay Goel Applauds SC’s Balanced Stance on Stray Dogs
Former Union Minister and BJP leader Vijay Goel has welcomed the Supreme Court’s recent observations on India’s stray dog crisis, calling it a “humane yet pragmatic” approach. The court emphasized both animal welfare and citizen safety while directing local bodies to enforce sterilization and vaccination programs effectively.
Goel stated, “The SC’s verdict strikes a crucial balance—protecting animals without compromising human security.”
India’s Stray Dog Crisis: Key Concerns
With over 12,000 rabies-related deaths in a decade (NCRB data), stray dog management remains a pressing issue. Urban areas report frequent bites and protests, while activists oppose culling, advocating for the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program instead.
Supreme Court’s Directives: Highlights
- Scale Up ABC Programs: Sterilize and vaccinate strays to curb population growth.
- Ensure Public Safety: Address aggressive dog threats promptly.
- Promote Awareness: Educate communities on coexistence and responsible pet ownership.
Justice Dipankar Datta noted, “Animals have a right to live, but not at the cost of human life.”
Vijay Goel’s 4-Point Action Plan
- Boost Sterilization: Municipal-NGO partnerships for efficient ABC drives.
- Penalize Irresponsible Owners: Enforce laws against pet abandonment.
- Rabies Control: Mandatory vaccination for strays.
- Grievance Redressal: Quick-response teams for dog-related complaints.
Public and Political Reactions
While PETA India praised the SC’s focus on sterilization, RWAs demand stricter measures. Kerala’s past culling orders highlight policy polarisation. Goel’s measured stance aligns with the court’s push for equilibrium.
The Path Ahead
Success hinges on municipal execution and public cooperation—avoiding pet abandonment and supporting ABC efforts. As Goel stressed, “Harmony between humans and animals is non-negotiable.”
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