The Supreme Court’s recent decision to remove all stray dogs from Delhi’s streets, and now from Rajasthan too, has sparked a big debate in the country. Many Bollywood actors, comedians, and animal lovers have openly criticised the order, saying it is unfair and cruel to the animals.
Actress Janhvi Kapoor, who is known for her love for animals, shared a petition online to stop the removal. She wrote that stray dogs are not just random animals but an important part of the city’s life. “They are our protectors, friends, and companions. Locking them up is not a solution, it’s taking away their home,” she said. She called for other options like sterilisation, vaccination, adoption, and feeding zones instead of removing them completely.
Actor Varun Dhawan also reposted the petition on his social media, showing his support for the cause.
Veteran actress Raveena Tandon pointed out that this problem could have been avoided if local authorities had done their job earlier. She said that if sterilisation and vaccination programmes had been done properly, the number of stray dogs would not have grown so much.
Comedian and actor Vir Das requested Delhi residents to adopt Indie (stray) dogs and to help animal welfare groups. He said this was the best way to help the dogs during this crisis.Animal rights group PETA India also strongly opposed the decision, calling it “unscientific” and harmful. They explained that removing dogs will not solve the problem and will only cause them more suffering.
While many people support the celebrities and activists, some residents and housing societies believe the order will help reduce dog bites and rabies cases. However, experts say the government does not have enough space or resources to shelter so many dogs.
This growing debate shows the clash between public safety concerns and compassion for animals. Bollywood’s strong reaction proves that many want solutions that protect both people and the stray dogs who share our streets.
