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India’s New Stray Dog Rules Spark Outrage Among Activists

A controversial ‘no-return’ policy for stray dogs divides India. Will the government listen to activists—or risk a legal showdown?

In this picture we can see there are two dogs laying on the cloth and on the cloth there are some...
In this picture we can see there are two dogs laying on the cloth and on the cloth there are some items. Behind the dogs there is a wall.

India’s New Stray Dog Rules Spark Outrage Among Activists

New rules for managing stray dogs in India have triggered a fierce backlash from animal rights groups. The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) released standard operating procedures (SOPs) to relocate dogs from public institutions after a Supreme Court order. Critics claim the guidelines are unworkable, unscientific, and could harm thousands of animals.

The controversy began when the Supreme Court directed the removal of stray dogs from institutional premises, banning their return to original areas. The AWBI’s SOPs now enforce this with a strict 'no-return' policy, mandating lifetime shelter, sterilisation, and detailed care for all relocated dogs.

The AWBI now faces mounting pressure to rethink its approach. Without changes, the SOPs risk widespread opposition and potential legal challenges. The outcome will determine how India’s stray dog population is managed in the years ahead.

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