More than forty animal rights activists and dedicated feeders gathered at the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation head office in Belapur on Monday. They held a crucial meeting with Municipal Commissioner Kailas Shinde. The group urgently raised concerns about recent police complaints filed against two women who feed stray dogs in Ghansoli.
Activists Demand Answers on FIRs and Dog Removal
The delegation, led by Vijay Rangare from the Rakshak animal welfare group, presented their case directly to Commissioner Shinde. They questioned the rationale behind filing First Information Reports against the two feeders. These women had simply asked civic staff about the destination of sterilized dogs being taken from Ghansoli.
Sterilized Dogs and Feeding Zones Under Scrutiny
Activists expressed deep worry over the NMMC's practice of picking up healthy, sterilized dogs. They argued that confining these animals in small cages constitutes unnecessary cruelty. The group emphasized that the Supreme Court is still hearing matters related to stray dog management. Therefore, they believe the corporation should avoid hasty actions.
Team Rakshak also highlighted the ongoing absence of designated dog feeding spots within NMMC jurisdictions. They pressed the civic chief for clear timelines on establishing these safe zones for community feeders.
Official Response and Next Steps
Veterinary Officer S. Todkar was not available for an in-person comment during the visit. However, he communicated via telephone. Todkar assured the activists that he would meet with them on Tuesday to discuss their grievances in detail.
The animal lovers' visit underscores growing tensions between community caregivers and municipal authorities in Navi Mumbai. The outcome of Tuesday's meeting with the veterinary officer is now eagerly awaited by all stakeholders involved in animal welfare.
