Karnataka MLC SL Bhojegowda has stirred nationwide outrage with a startling claim. Speaking in the Legislative Council, the Janata Dal (Secular) leader admitted to killing 2,800 stray dogs during his tenure as head of the Chikmagalur civic body.
He said the move aimed to protect children from dog attacks. Bhojegowda even declared he was ready to go to jail if needed for the safety of the kids. His comments come amid heated debate over the Supreme Court’s order to remove all stray dogs from Delhi and NCR within eight weeks.
“We Fed Meat Laced with Poison”
Bhojegowda recalled a time “once upon a time” when he took drastic measures. “We had mixed something with meat and fed about 2,800 dogs and buried them under coconut trees,” he said.
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He added that while he had concern for animals, “animal lovers are another menace.” According to him, daily reports of dog attacks justified such action.
Growing Tensions After Supreme Court Order
Supreme Court’s recent directive to remove stray dogs from Delhi-NCR and place them in shelters has divided opinion. Resident Welfare Associations welcomed the move. However, animal rights groups condemned it as inhumane. Bhojegowda’s admission has now amplified the ethical and legal debate.
Karnataka’s Own Stray Menace
The issue is not new in Karnataka. In Bengaluru, two MSc students from the Ambedkar School of Economics University were hospitalised after a dog attack. Last month, a 70-year-old man died after being allegedly mauled by a pack outside his Kodigehalli home. Earlier, a three-year-old girl in Old Hubballi suffered severe injuries after being dragged by stray dogs.
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Civic Lapses Under Scrutiny
Karnataka Lokayukta Justice BS Patil has criticised Bengaluru’s civic body, BBMP, for failing to control stray dog attacks. A major lapse was BBMP’s failure to set up observation homes for aggressive dogs, despite repeated instructions.
Ethics vs. Public Safety — A Polarising Dilemma
The statement made by Bhojegowda raises a more serious issue. Is mass culling justified in the interest of public safety? Strict action proponents contend that increasing attacks necessitate extreme measures. Opponents say such methods violate animal rights and ignore long-term solutions like sterilisation and vaccination.
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Judiciary’s Next Move
Following public uproar over the Supreme Court order, Chief Justice of India BR Gavai said he would look into the matter. The coming weeks will decide whether India chooses mass removal, humane control, or a combination of both to handle its growing stray dog crisis.
