Authorities in the southern Indian state of Telangana have launched an investigation after hundreds of stray dogs were killed across at least six villages in the past month. Police say they have confirmed at least 354 killings so far and arrested nine people in connection with some of the cases. Animal welfare activists have told the BBC that the dogs were either poisoned or given lethal injections, but police are awaiting forensic reports to establish the method used.
Villagers have indicated that the killings were connected to promises made by candidates during recent local election campaigns to eliminate stray dogs and monkeys. The killings have been reported during a time of larger debates regarding stray animals in India, with the country's Supreme Court hearing petitions about managing stray populations, particularly in the capital, Delhi.
The issue of stray animals—mostly dogs, but also cattle and monkeys—poses significant challenges, with complaints of attacks, crop damage, and traffic accidents. Activists have raised concerns over humane treatment and proper penalties for animal cruelty, especially against a backdrop of insufficient sterilisation and vaccination efforts.
Telangana State Minister Danasari Anasuya Seethakka described the killings as illegal and inhumane, warning of strict action against those involved. While many in the community fear danger from stray dogs, some residents have defended the actions as necessary for public safety. Recent records indicate over 122,000 dog bite cases in 2024, though no rabies deaths were reported in the same period.
The controversy highlights the ongoing complexities of animal rights activism and community safety in India.
Villagers have indicated that the killings were connected to promises made by candidates during recent local election campaigns to eliminate stray dogs and monkeys. The killings have been reported during a time of larger debates regarding stray animals in India, with the country's Supreme Court hearing petitions about managing stray populations, particularly in the capital, Delhi.
The issue of stray animals—mostly dogs, but also cattle and monkeys—poses significant challenges, with complaints of attacks, crop damage, and traffic accidents. Activists have raised concerns over humane treatment and proper penalties for animal cruelty, especially against a backdrop of insufficient sterilisation and vaccination efforts.
Telangana State Minister Danasari Anasuya Seethakka described the killings as illegal and inhumane, warning of strict action against those involved. While many in the community fear danger from stray dogs, some residents have defended the actions as necessary for public safety. Recent records indicate over 122,000 dog bite cases in 2024, though no rabies deaths were reported in the same period.
The controversy highlights the ongoing complexities of animal rights activism and community safety in India.
