The Supreme Court revised its controversial order on Friday, stating that stray dogs in Delhi-NCR should not be relocated but rather vaccinated and dewormed before being returned to their original location. Dogs with rabies or displaying aggression will be vaccinated and housed in separate shelters. The court emphasized that this decision wouldn't be limited to Delhi-NCR alone but will serve as a basis for a national policy.
A Compassionate and Scientific Decision: Rahul Gandhi
Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, welcomed the court's verdict. He expressed, "I welcome the revised order by the Supreme Court. It is a progressive step towards balancing animal welfare with public safety. This decision is rooted in compassion and scientific thought."
I Am Delighted, It's a Scientific Judgment: Maneka Gandhi
Animal rights activist and former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi expressed her happiness over the judgment. She stated, "I am delighted with this scientific judgment. The primary reason for dog bites is fear, and moving them away exacerbates this issue."
Maneka further added that the court correctly decided that rabid dogs shouldn't be released. However, defining 'aggressive dog' remains necessary. The court mandated that this policy be implemented nationwide, with municipal corporations establishing ABC (Animal Birth Control) centers. The government announced a budget of 2,500 crore rupees for this initiative in Parliament.
Varun Gandhi also Expressed Joy, Advised Self-Appreciation
Former MP Varun Gandhi expressed his gratitude to the Supreme Court on the platform X, urging those who advocated for voiceless animals to commend themselves.
Priyanka Gandhi Had Voiced Concern, Called it an Inhumane Move
Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wrote on X that relocating all city dogs to shelters within weeks is harsh and inhumane. She highlighted the lack of shelter capacity and the suffering of animals in urban areas, calling for better and safer living conditions for these innocent creatures.
Initial Opposition Turned to Relief
Earlier, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Varun Gandhi, and Maneka Gandhi opposed the Supreme Court's directive to remove dogs from streets. Rahul Gandhi emphasized that these mute beings aren't the problem, advocating for shelters, sterilization, vaccination, and community care as safe solutions.
Maneka Gandhi's Strong Critique
Maneka Gandhi previously criticized the order as impractical, financially impossible, and environmentally dangerous, asserting the hefty costs involved.
Varun Gandhi on Institutionalizing Cruelty
Varun Gandhi initially labeled the order as 'institutionalizing cruelty,' expressing concerns over potential expansions to other animals and vulnerable communities, further reflecting on the moral crisis of a compassion-deprived nation.
