The Voiceless On Trial: India's Street Dogs Face a Judicial Crisis
"A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself," wrote Josh Billings. This sentiment, once widely cherished, now feels increasingly distant in India, as judicial decisions cast a shadow over the survival of community dogs. The debate is not about expensive breed dogs from breeders, who often face neglect and abandonment, but about our indigenous street dogs—born on Indian soil, struggling daily for food and shelter, and relying on human compassion for dignity.
Colonial Hangover and Judicial Directives
India, after centuries of British rule, still grapples with a colonial mindset that favors foreign influences. This extends to attitudes toward animals, where community dogs are often viewed as nuisances rather than companions. In November of last year, the Supreme Court issued an order mandating the relocation of street dogs from public spaces like schools, hospitals, and transport hubs to shelters. However, these shelters are largely non-existent, leaving dogs in a precarious limbo.
This directive followed a tragic incident involving a rabid dog bite that claimed a child's life. While the loss is undeniable, it raises critical questions about root causes. Rabies is a deadly disease, but blame should not fall solely on the dogs. The failure lies in systemic lapses—specifically, the government's inability to implement Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, which require sterilizing, vaccinating, and returning dogs to their original locations.
Systemic Failures and Rising Conflicts
The consequences of these failures are twofold: an increase in dog births and a rise in human-animal conflicts. Many reported incidents are based on hearsay, with exaggerated claims of rabies and dog bites. Statistically, deaths from pollution, starvation, and other human-caused issues far outnumber those from dog bites. In numerous areas, dog bite incidents have been minimal or absent for over a year, underscoring the need for balanced perspectives.
On a personal note, the health of community dogs often reflects the morality of a locality. As a long-time feeder and animal activist, I have witnessed firsthand the anguish of these voiceless beings. If not for advocates speaking out, they might face eradication, joining the list of extinct species once called man's best friend.
The Harsh Reality for Stray Dogs
Imagine enduring days without food, suffering injuries from accidents, or witnessing the loss of offspring—this is the daily reality for many street dogs. Despite such hardships, a simple biscuit can elicit a wagging tail, a testament to their resilient spirit. Yet, cruelty persists: cases of poisoning, beatings, and lethal injections, such as the reported killing of 1,500 dogs and 80 monkeys in Telangana, highlight a disturbing trend.
How can humans betray the trust of these animals, who seek only love and sustenance? Their defensive behaviors are often responses to repeated harm inflicted by people. Judges must consider these realities when interpreting laws.
Global Comparisons and Cultural Shifts
India eagerly adopts Western trends in art, fashion, and cuisine, yet lags in emulating their robust animal protection laws. First-world countries impose strict penalties, including jail time and fines, for animal abusers, setting a precedent for compassion. In contrast, India's approach often involves removing community animals, undermining a legacy of loyalty and companionship.
This normalization of cruelty has profound implications for future generations. Criminal psychology shows that animal cruelty can be a precursor to violence against humans, with notorious cases like Jeffrey Dahmer and Ed Kemper illustrating this pattern. By tolerating such behavior, we risk teaching children that empathy is optional and violence against the voiceless is acceptable.
The Joy and Lessons from Dogs
For those without pets, the simple joys dogs offer—unconditional love, loyalty, and living in the moment—may be overlooked. They greet you with enthusiasm, whether you've been gone for seconds or years, teaching lessons in happiness and connection. Yet, society seems divided between animal lovers and haters, with recent judicial actions emboldening hostility.
Since the Supreme Court order, incidents of animal cruelty have risen, urging a call to action. I appeal to state governments to enforce humane and lawful measures that protect both citizens and animals, ensuring existing welfare rules are implemented effectively.
As Mark Twain aptly said, "The more I see of man, the more I love my dogs." It is time for India to reflect this wisdom in its policies and actions.
