Silent but powerful — Pune citizens march to defend the legal rights of stray dogs in the ‘Their Home, Their Right’ protest. Photo: puneripages.in
By Prashant for PuneriPages.in
Pune stray dog relocation became the focus of a powerful silent march that spoke louder than any slogan could. The message printed on many of those placards was simple yet powerful — “Their Home, Their Right.”
The group walked from Goodluck Chowk to the Collector’s Office, not to shout or block traffic, but to make a point about compassion and the law: our city’s stray dogs have the right to live in their own neighborhoods, and moving them away is both illegal and cruel.
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A Silent Stand for the Voiceless
It was a striking sight — students in college hoodies, retired seniors in white caps, working professionals in office wear, and long-time animal welfare workers all walking side by side. There was no shouting, no drum beats, just the rustle of banners and the sound of footsteps. The silence made the message hit harder: this is about justice for beings who can’t speak for themselves.
Why Pune Stray Dog Relocation is Illegal and Inhumane
If you’ve ever noticed the same dogs greeting you every morning on your street, you’ll understand — dogs are deeply territorial. The Supreme Court of India and several High Courts have made it clear: they cannot be removed from the areas they call home.
When they are “dumped” elsewhere, they face attacks from other dog packs, risk being run over, or simply starve because they don’t know the new area. For many, it’s a slow, painful death. That’s why this protest wasn’t just about animals — it was about following the law and practicing empathy.
The Humane Solution to Pune Stray Dog Relocation
The marchers weren’t just there to complain; they came with a solution — the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program. It’s straightforward: sterilize and vaccinate the dogs, then return them to the same spot. This keeps their population stable, stops the spread of diseases like rabies, and maintains a balance in the community.
This isn’t a new idea — it’s proven, legal, and humane. The real challenge, protesters say, is proper and consistent implementation.
The Appeal to Authorities
At the end of the march, the group reached the Collector’s Office, where they handed over a memorandum. In it, they asked for three clear actions:
- Enforce the laws that already ban illegal relocation
- Take action against anyone — individual or housing society — that displaces dogs
- Strengthen and expand the ABC program across the city
Everyone left hoping the message would land with those who can make a difference. After all, as one protestor quietly said while holding her placard, “We’re not just protecting dogs — we’re protecting what it means to be human.”
Sources & References:
Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) – Local body implementing ABC program.
Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) – National authority on animal protection laws.
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