‘Every Life Matters’: Pune Animal Lovers Protest Against Dog Killings in Delhi
Reported by Dhanashri Landge
Pune, 23rd August 2025: Protests have intensified after allegations of animal cruelty at a dog sterilisation centre in Delhi’s Rohini Sector 27. Activists accused the facility of killing dogs and being linked to the illegal dog meat trade. Around 150 people gathered outside the centre overnight, claiming that the animals were neglected, poorly treated, and in some cases, killed. The incident has sparked nationwide outrage among animal welfare groups.
The Delhi Police confirmed the protest but said no official evidence has yet substantiated the allegations. However, activists have demanded an immediate investigation, accountability, and greater transparency in animal welfare practices.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court upheld the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, reversing its earlier stance on removing stray dogs from Delhi. The court directed that stray dogs must be sterilised, vaccinated, dewormed, and then released in the same areas. It ruled that only rabid or aggressive dogs should be kept in shelters. The judgment also mandated feeding zones, coordination between civic authorities and NGOs, and awareness campaigns to ensure humane coexistence.
In solidarity with the protests in Delhi, Pune-based animal welfare groups held a silent protest on Saturday outside the District Collector’s Office. Activists opposed the alleged killings in Delhi and demanded lawful sterilisation, vaccination, and safe care for dogs housed in government pounds. They emphasised humane treatment of street dogs and rejected mass confinement.
“We are here today as one voice for our animals. This protest is not about dividing ourselves into different organisations; it is about uniting for a common cause. Around 15 to 20 animal welfare organisations from Pune, along with individual animal feeders, rescuers, and environmentally conscious citizens, have joined us. Whether it is our rivers, trees, pigeons, or dogs, every living being has the right to life. We believe in co-living, where humans and animals share this planet with respect and care. Our strength is standing together, not apart,” said Amit Singh, an environmentalist and PhD scholar in Mathematics.
Animal welfare activist Rakesh Jagtap added, “More awareness rallies and counselling are necessary to stop cruelty against animals. In Pune, we counsel people and work with NGOs and government authorities to protect animals. We urge citizens to reach out to us whenever needed — we are here to help at any time. To counter such situations, it is essential to involve animal lovers, NGOs, and the Animal Welfare Board.”
