On February 22, Lucknow saw a significant rally in support of street dogs led by Prateek Yadav, the brother of former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. The event stretched from the Taj Hotel to the 1090 Chauraha, drawing attention to the treatment of stray canines. During the rally, Yadav urged the Supreme Court to avoid what he termed “inhumane decisions” regarding the removal and treatment of these animals.

Yadav expressed his concerns about potential actions that might lead to separating street dogs from society, emphasizing that such measures are cruel. He noted that dogs are social animals and suggested that confining them would prove impractical for the government. Instead, he advocated for a focus on animal birth control methods to decrease the stray population over the next decade. He stated that programs aimed at neutering, castration, and spaying should be scaled up to ensure both humane treatment of the animals and the needs of the community.

Voices from the Community

Participants in the rally shared their personal experiences and commitment to animal welfare. Rashmi Singh, a rally attendee, highlighted her efforts in feeding and providing medical care for street dogs. She expressed her dedication as both an animal lover and a supporter of humanitarian causes. Singh criticized the Supreme Court’s proposed solutions as unjust to animals, insisting that coexistence between humans and animals should be prioritized. She stated that the ongoing situation resembles blindfolding the animals and called for just and equitable solutions that consider the welfare of all beings.

Clarification from the Supreme Court

In a related context, the Supreme Court had clarified earlier in January that it had not issued any directive for the complete removal of street dogs. The court specified that its direction pertains to the humane treatment of stray dogs in accordance with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules. A special bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria reiterated this point, indicating their focus on ensuring proper treatment of stray animals rather than their eradication.

Broader Support for Animal Welfare Initiatives

The rally brought together advocates for animal rights who collectively seek improved standards for street dogs. Yadav’s participation served to highlight the ongoing discussions about responsible animal management methods. Emphasizing community engagement in animal welfare, he called for increased support for organizations and initiatives that focus on animal birth control. Participants collectively acknowledged the significance of addressing the needs of street dogs while also considering the interests of humans in urban spaces.

The rally in Lucknow not only underscored the vital need for humane solutions to issues surrounding stray dogs but also galvanized a community determined to foster better treatment of animals in society. Activists continue to advocate for policies that align with both compassion and practicality, hoping to create a balanced approach to animal welfare in the region.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share