Officials in New Delhi are considering setting up shelters for stray dogs to help combat an increase in dog bites. 75% of the dogs have already been immunized against rabies and sterilized. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) aims to ensure that 100% of stray dogs in the city are sterilized. The dogs will be released back into the area from which they were picked up once they have been sterilized and immunized. MCD officials are currently holding meetings to discuss a proposal to build shelters for stray dogs. However, some animal lovers are opposing the plan.
The MCD has already sterilized almost 7,000 stray dogs in January and February, with more dogs being picked up daily for sterilization and release. There has been an increase in dog bite incidents in the national capital in the past six months, with some attacks resulting in fatalities. The Centre has recently directed local bodies to ensure only recognized organizations carry out animal birth control programs for stray dogs in accordance with the recently notified rules. The Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 were issued following the guidelines of the Supreme Court in a case involving the Animal Welfare Board of India and People for Elimination of Stray Troubles.
