I’m not one to get upset easily but after hearing about New Delhi Supreme Court’s decision on stray dogs, it breaks my heart. Owning a dog has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. He is not just a pet but a part of the family. It is difficult to put into words but his presence brings us so much joy and comfort - I’m sure something fellow pet owners can understand. If there’s one creature that embodies unconditional love, for me, it’s dogs. 

But unfortunately, dogs cannot voice their fears or concerns, which is why I am creating this petition for them. 

On Monday August 11th, the Supreme Court of India ordered that all dogs in New Delhi be rounded up and permanently detained in shelters, within 8 weeks.

This decision overlooks viable solutions and diverts attention, resources, and finances from more pressing issues like poverty, infrastructure development, crime, and women’s safety. There are over 1 million stray dogs in New Delhi and the lack of adequate shelter facilities further complicates this decision, leaving hundreds of thousands (yes, thousands!!) of dogs in distress rather than protecting them.

Because of the court’s decision, the lives of many innocent dogs will no longer be safe, and lives will be lost. 

The Humane Society International notes that vaccination and sterilization are effective and humane solutions to control stray animal populations without compromising their well-being. Many cities globally have successfully implemented TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs, leading to healthier communities for both humans and animals.

The Supreme Court’s decision seems out of touch with humane animal management strategies and community needs. Instead of removing these innocent creatures from the streets permanently, a more effective strategy would be to expand vaccination programs, invest in sterilization clinics, and provide community education on coexisting peacefully and effectively with stray animals.

We urge the Supreme Court to reconsider this decision, align with modern and humane solutions, and focus the country’s resources on pressing human issues.

If you are reading this and believe that these dogs deserve a chance at surviving, then please sign this petition to show your support, and more importantly, to help reverse the decision to indiscriminately round up dogs in New Delhi.