Meneka Gandhi stated, regarding the increasing number of stray dogs in Delhi and the Supreme Court's order, that mistreatment of animals is never acceptable. She identified a permanent solution to the problem as action against illegal meat centers, social awareness, and maintaining a balance between humans and animals.
New Delhi: The issue of stray dogs has once again grabbed headlines. Recently, the Supreme Court, noting an increase in dog bite incidents, ordered that all stray dogs be moved to safe shelter houses. From January 2022 to July 2025, approximately 300,000 dog bite cases were registered, the majority of which were related to bites from stray dogs. Following this order, debate has intensified at political and social levels. Amidst this, BJP leader and animal rights activist Meneka Gandhi made a clear statement that mistreatment of any animal is unacceptable.
Meneka Gandhi's Clarification
Meneka Gandhi said that her objective is not only to comply with the legal order but also to maintain a balance between animals and humans. She explained that people want animals to be safe and no one to harm their children or themselves. Gandhi said, "If the animals are removed, then their children will also not be in danger, and I completely agree with this. But the problem is that the animals will not be removed."
Her point is that if an attempt is made to remove 300,000 dogs from Delhi, the same number of dogs will return to Delhi from Ghaziabad and Faridabad within a week. She argues that there is enough food and shelter available for dogs in Delhi, so their number continues to increase.
The Role of Illegal Chicken Centers and Meat Shops
Meneka Gandhi also drew attention to a significant aspect of this problem. She said that more than 50,000 illegal chicken centers are operating in Delhi, which contributes to the increase in the number of dogs. These meat shops are running without licenses and legal permission. She emphasized that the law should first be enforced on these illegal chicken centers, only then can the problem of stray dogs be permanently controlled.
Gandhi said, "If we only focus on removing dogs and no action is taken against meat centers, then the problem will never end. We have to find a solution from a holistic perspective."
Appeal to the Supreme Court for Review
Meneka Gandhi also appealed to the Supreme Court to review this order and see how the most balanced solution can be found that is in the interest of both dogs and humans. She believes that the purpose of the law should be to balance animal rights and human safety.
Need for Social Awareness
Meneka Gandhi also appealed to the general public to be aware of this issue and show empathy towards animals. She said that every person in society should respect the rights of animals and help them reach safe places when needed. She believes that the problem will not be solved by administrative orders alone; society's participation is also necessary.
