Candlelight March in Delhi Opposes Stray Dog Relocation Order

August 11, 2025: A group of animal lovers and activists gathered in Delhi's Rohini for a candlelight march to protest a recent Supreme Court ruling. The court has ordered the relocation of all stray dogs in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) to shelters within eight weeks, aiming to address rising concerns about dog bites and rabies. This decision has ignited a fierce debate over balancing public safety with animal welfare.

The Supreme Court's directive was prompted by increasing reports of dog bite incidents across India, particularly in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Delhi. The ruling mandates the creation of shelters to accommodate at least 5,000 stray dogs initially, with a policy preventing their release to ensure public safety.

However, the march in Rohini, organized by concerned citizens and animal welfare groups, highlighted the potential harm to stray dogs. Protesters held signs reading "Save Dogs" and "Every wagging tail of a stray brings a promise of unspoken love," calling for a compassionate approach to managing the stray dog population. One notable banner stated, "हम बेज़ुबानों पर अत्याचार नहीं होने देंगे; उन्हें अकेला छोड़ दो" (We will not allow atrocities on the voiceless; leave them alone), capturing the protesters' strong feelings.

The issue of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR has become highly contentious. While the court aims to reduce public health risks, activists warn that relocating dogs to shelters could lead to overcrowding and neglect the connections stray dogs have with local communities. Participants in the march, carrying candles and Indian flags, urged authorities to explore solutions that prioritize both safety and kindness.

Public figures and celebrities have also criticized the court's order, calling it a "death sentence" for stray dogs and advocating for more humane policies. Meanwhile, authorities are moving forward with the directive, planning to monitor shelter conditions using CCTV to prevent unauthorized releases.

The candlelight march underscores the ongoing challenge of finding a balance between protecting public health and ensuring the well-being of stray animals in India's urban areas.