On October 12 of last year, the High Court had ordered the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) not to continue the relocation operation of stray dogs that it had started. Unfortunately, it appears that, despite these orders, there continue to be incidents of relocation of these animals -- recently, a short clip was shared on social media showing two people getting out of a DSCC vehicle and trying to catch a stray dog using a net.
There appear to be a number of hazy details surrounding the continued relocation of stray dogs; certain DSCC officials have stated that dogs are being picked up for sterilization purposes, while others have stated that these dogs were proving to be a danger to the local community, and were only being relocated to a safe location with plenty of food due to complaints made by citizens.
As such, it is vital that investigators get to the bottom of this, and uncover the full facts. Animal rights activists have a right to voice their concern with regards to these incidents, but simultaneously, it is important that people know the full details first.
Additionally, we remain in the middle of a global pandemic. With resources already scarce, there is a legitimate concern about the logic in using valuable resources for the relocation of stray dogs, when they could be better utilized in taking care of more pressing matters.
Regrettably, we have a long history of cruelty towards animals which animal activists have been trying to end. Some progress has been made with regards to the law, but until the DSCC is transparent about its intentions, this will remain a contentious issue.
