Will ensure public safety, humane care for stray dogs: Punjab CM Mann
Chandigarh, May 22
Amid growing concern over stray dog attacks in several parts of Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said on Friday that the state government would implement the Supreme Court's directions on stray dogs in true letter and spirit, while ensuring both public safety and humane care for animals.
Stressing that children, senior citizens and families must be able to move freely in public spaces without fear, the Chief Minister announced that stray dogs will be shifted from high footfall areas and adequate shelters will be created and maintained for their proper care, reaffirming the state government's commitment towards protecting both human lives and animal welfare.
Referring to the directions issued by the apex court on May 19, CM Mann said the state government has already issued necessary directions to ensure strict compliance with the orders across the state.
"As per the Supreme Court's directions, stray dogs will be removed from all high footfall public spaces so that children, senior citizens and families can move freely without fear for their safety," he said in a statement.
The Chief Minister said the state government will create and maintain an adequate number of dog shelters where stray dogs can be properly cared for.
He affirmed that the state government is committed to addressing the issue in a humane and legally compliant manner while simultaneously safeguarding public safety.
"Legally permissible measures, including euthanasia, in cases involving rabid, incurably ill or demonstrably dangerous and aggressive dogs posing a threat to human life, will be ensured strictly in accordance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Animal Birth Control Rules," he added.
The Chief Minister said that the move will provide major relief to people across Punjab, as the growing stray dog menace has emerged as a grave threat to human life.
"Incidents involving stray dog attacks have caused widespread concern among citizens, making it necessary for the state government to act decisively on the issue," CM Mann added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I'm happy they're following Supreme Court directions, but I'm worried about implementation. We've seen so many schemes fail in Punjab because of lack of follow-through. Also, euthanasia for aggressive dogs needs clear protocols - who decides which dog is 'demonstrably dangerous'? Too much discretion could be misused.
As someone who works with animal welfare NGOs in Delhi, I appreciate this approach. ABC (Animal Birth Control) programs are the only sustainable solution. Simply removing dogs from one area just creates a vacuum for new packs. Hope Punjab invests in proper sterilization drives alongside shelter creation. 🙏
Jalandhar mein toh yeh bahut badi problem hai! My father was bitten last month while going for his morning walk. I'm glad CM is taking action, but it should have been done years ago. The shelters need to be properly funded and maintained, not just built for show. Otherwise it's just another photo op. 😠
This is such a complex issue. I feel for the victims of attacks, but I also can't bear to see healthy street dogs being rounded up and put in cages. The sterilization and vaccination approach is the most humane and scientifically proven method. Let's hope they coordinate with local vets and NGOs for proper execution. 🐕🦺
Typical political statement - sounds good but lacks detail. How many shelters? Where will they be located? What's the budget? This affects millions of Punjabis, and we need concrete plans, not just assurances. The SC order from May 19 is clear, but local bodies also need to be accountable
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