Tipline To Prevent Culling Of Dogs

Last month, culling of 40 dogs was reported in Kerala. A dog catcher and his aides were accused of culling 40 dogs. A complaint was filed by Reena Richard, Secretary of Mumbai-based Satjeev Karuna Parivar Trust, Kannur police. The accused persons killed dogs by injecting them with potassium cyanide in the village Puzhathi.

Richard, a lawyer, after receiving a call from Kannur filed a complaint about the dog killing in Puzhathi, where the incident of dead dog bodies being piled up was reported.

However, the local of Puzhathi were angry over the complaint filed by Richard. Jagesh Babu, Chairman of Panchayat Development Committee said that animal lovers failed to understand the threat posed by these stray dogs. Babu and P Ramakrishnan, president of panchayat said that they were ‘unaware’ of the killings.

The stray dogs had bitten many people, including children. So local people somehow organized a dog catcher for the killing of dogs in frustration.

While Babu denied any panchayat’s role, Richard blamed the panchayat for breaking the roles.

Several campaigns, like #BoycottKerala collaborated with the veterinary doctors and animal right activists to express their vigorous opposition. Despite of the protest, government of Kerala remained firm on the decision of stray dogs killing. Animal activists have called for boycott of Kerala till the Government doesn’t stop the culling of dogs. After a public uproar over the social media channels and worldwide petitions, the state government decided to sterilize 500 dogs in every district. As per a recent update by The Hindu, Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has launched a tipline for people to report cases or sightings of dog culling or any activities related to animal cruelty in the state.

THE HINDU REPORT

October 14, 2015 – In an attempt to prevent culling of street dogs, the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has launched a tipline to report such illegal acts in the State.

Those having video or photo evidence of dog culling or concrete information regarding such activities in any part of the State have been encouraged to report them to 8590380390. Alternatively, information regarding dislocation or killing of dogs can also be emailed [email protected].

Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, AWBI co-opted member Gauri Maulekhi said the information collected through the facility will be shared with the State police. The approach is aimed at boosting the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme implemented by the State government and assisting the law enforcement agencies in nabbing those who indulge in illegal dislocation and culling of dogs. According to her, attempts made to eradicate dogs tend to make the animals more aggressive.The AWBI has also submitted a complaint seeking action against industrialist Kochouseph Chittilappilly and the Theruvu Naya Unmoolana Sangham (street dog eradication group) for allegedly involving in illegal catching of stray dogs in Ayavana grama panchayat in Ernakulam. In the complaint, it has been stated that Mr. Chittilappilly has promised to provide O.N. Joy, leader of the anti-stray dog group, Rs.5 lakh to catch strays. Ms. Maulekhi held the view that the issue of dog bites was one that was created due to the failure in ensuring proper waste management.

This report was posted here