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Kerala's Stray Dog Crisis: Why Removing 2.8 Lakh Animals Is Impossible

Kerala's Local Self-Government Minister M.B. Rajesh has declared that removing all stray dogs from the state isn't practical. The state faces enormous logistical challenges with over 2.8 lakh stray dogs and limited sterilization capacity. Local protests against establishing Animal Birth Control shelters have complicated the situation further. The government is now exploring alternative solutions like portable ABC units while awaiting the official Supreme Court order.

Key Points: Kerala Minister M B Rajesh Says Removing All Stray Dogs Impractical

  • Kerala faces massive challenge with over 2.8 lakh stray dogs across state
  • Only 15,825 dogs sterilized last year despite 19 ABC centers
  • Local protests blocking establishment of new animal birth control shelters
  • Government exploring portable ABC units as alternative solution
2 min read

Removing all stray dogs in state impractical: Kerala Minister M.B. Rajesh

Kerala Minister M.B. Rajesh explains why Supreme Court's stray dog removal order faces massive logistical challenges and public resistance across the state.

"When there is resistance to even establishing ABC shelters, how can all stray dogs be removed? - M.B. Rajesh"

Thiruvananthapuram Nov 7

Kerala Local Self-Government Minister M.B. Rajesh on Friday said that removing all stray dogs from the streets of the state, as directed by the Supreme Court, is not a practical proposition.

The minister pointed out that there are protests even against starting Animal Birth Control (ABC) shelters in many areas.

"When there is resistance to even establishing ABC shelters, how can all stray dogs be removed?" he asked.

Rajesh said that the state government has not yet received a copy of the Supreme Court’s order, and a detailed response would be issued once the official directive is examined.

The apex court’s reported direction to clear stray dogs from public spaces poses a significant logistical challenge for Kerala.

Identifying sufficient land for shelter homes, ensuring proper facilities, and deploying enough personnel are major hurdles.

Even the existing ABC centres are functioning below capacity in several districts.

According to the latest Livestock Census, Kerala has over 2.8 lakh stray dogs.

Only 15,825 dogs were sterilised in the past year, while 9,737 have been sterilised so far this financial year.

The state has 19 ABC centres, some of which are not operational, and just 595 animal catchers in total.

The government has cited local opposition as a key obstacle to finding land for ABC centres.

In response, it has proposed setting up portable ABC units.

However, officials are concerned that if residents oppose even these, establishing full-fledged shelter homes would become nearly impossible.

Earlier, there were suggestions to identify uninhabited areas near forests for setting up such facilities.

Each dog would require an individual kennel, and more catchers and staff would have to be deployed.

Given the high costs and logistical constraints, the state is exploring viable options before finalising its stance.

A clear plan is expected to emerge after ministerial consultations and a meeting with the Animal Welfare Board.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As someone who was bitten by a stray dog last year, I understand the safety concerns. But mass removal isn't the answer. Sterilization and proper management is the way forward.
S
Sarah B
Why is there so much opposition to ABC shelters? People complain about stray dogs but also protest against solutions. We need more awareness and community participation.
A
Arjun K
The numbers speak for themselves - only 15,825 sterilized last year out of 2.8 lakh dogs! The government needs to show more urgency in implementing ABC programs effectively.
M
Michael C
Portable ABC units sound like a good temporary solution. At least the government is trying to find alternatives when faced with local opposition. Better than doing nothing!
K
Kavya N
I respectfully disagree with the minister's approach. The government should take stronger action. Children and elderly people feel unsafe walking on streets due to aggressive stray dogs. Public safety should be the priority.
V
Vikram M
This is a classic case of "NIMBY" (Not In My Backyard) syndrome. Everyone wants the problem solved but nobody wants the solution near their home. We need to be more responsible as citizens. 🙏

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