Bhopal: Pet lovers in Bhopal are set to stage a demonstration at Shahpura Lake in protest against the Supreme Court’s recent directive to relocate stray dogs from the Delhi-NCR region to dog shelters. The protest aims to highlight concerns over what activists describe as an unsustainable and inhumane approach to managing the stray dog population.
Speaking to this correspondent, local animal welfare advocate Swati Gourav stressed that campaigners are not opposing regulation but are seeking “a sustainable solution, not mass displacement”. She emphasised that relocation often results in overcrowded shelters and deteriorating conditions for the animals.
Fellow pet lover Shivani Pathak Patel said that more than 100 pet owners, accompanied by their dogs, are expected to take part in the demonstration. “We want to raise awareness and appeal for compassion towards strays,” she added.
Organisers say the protest will be peaceful, featuring placards, awareness messages, and calls for humane urban animal management policies. They hope the demonstration will encourage authorities to reconsider relocation plans and explore long-term, community-based solutions.
