A controversy erupted at Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium over the return of stray dogs. The stadium management barred the dogs from entering the premises, while dog lovers called it a violation of court orders. The dogs were kept hungry and thirsty in a van for hours.
New Delhi: The controversy surrounding stray dogs at Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (JNS) complex has flared up again. On Thursday, the stadium administration banned the re-entry of dogs that had been brought to the premises two days prior for sterilization. Dog lovers and animal rights activists protested this move, stating that the action goes against the rehabilitation of dogs and court orders. Dog lovers alleged that the dogs were made to wait hungry and thirsty in a van for hours, while no proper arrangements were made by the administration.
Ban on Re-entry of Dogs
Dog lovers reported that on Thursday morning around 7 AM, MCD vehicles were bringing the dogs back to the stadium after sterilization and vaccination, but guards denied them entry to the premises. The stadium administration stated that dogs could only be brought in after receiving orders from higher authorities.
Subsequently, activists from Animal India Trust and People for Animals waited outside the stadium for hours. Ambika Shukla and Asher Jesudoss met with officials, demanding the safe entry of the dogs, but they were asked to leave the reception area.
Importance of Securing Stray Dogs' Original Habitat
The incident is linked to instances of two trainers being bitten by dogs on October 3. As per court directives, it is mandatory to return dogs to their original location after sterilization and vaccination.
Dog lovers argue that leaving the dogs outside the stadium constitutes illegal relocation, and the Supreme Court has given clear instructions that no stray dog should be evicted from its habitat. Mala Tuli, who has been caring for dogs around JNS for over two decades, also criticized this action by the administration.
SAI Bans Entry of Dogs into Stadium
SAI (Sports Authority of India) has banned feeding and entry of dogs inside the stadium. Officials stated that controlling the presence and feeding of dogs within the premises is necessary for safety and hygiene.
SAI wrote to MCD, requesting the creation of special feeding centers outside the premises to prevent aggressive behavior and biting incidents by dogs. However, some individuals are attempting to forcefully bring dogs into the stadium, further escalating the standoff.
