Illegal Release Of 20 Stray Dogs From Kandivali Into Aarey Forest Sparks Outrage
Illegal Release Of 20 Stray Dogs From Kandivali Into Aarey Forest Sparks Outrage
It has come to light that some residents from the Kandivali area illegally released stray dogs into the Aarey forest. This act has angered animal lovers, who have filed a police complaint. In response, Mumbai-based animal welfare volunteers launched a rescue operation and have so far recovered nine dogs.
Reportedly, around 20 stray dogs were caught and released into the forest without any administrative permission by residents of a housing society in Kandivali East, frustrated by the growing stray dog population. This raises serious concerns over the safety of the dogs and the threat to Aarey’s biodiversity. Animal activist Reshma Sheltkar called the act unethical and a violation of animal rights, equating it to sending the dogs to their death.
As news spread, volunteers entered the forest to rescue the dogs. On Tuesday evening, two dogs were found deep inside the forest, and the search was resumed on Wednesday morning when two puppies were discovered. Residents had reportedly transported the dogs in a tempo. A video of the act went viral on social media, helping expose the incident.
Despite a formal police complaint being filed on Tuesday, there are allegations that police have not extended any help in the rescue mission. Volunteers claim to be carrying out the entire operation without police assistance.
Tragically, two dogs were found dead, believed to have been killed in a leopard attack. The other nine have been rescued alive. The dogs were released into the forest on Sunday, and the rescue mission began after the incident came to light on Tuesday.
Releasing stray dogs into wild habitats is illegal under Sections 428 and 429 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalize causing harm to animals or abandoning them in dangerous environments.
The Aarey forest is home to wild animals like leopards, foxes, and monkeys. Stray dogs cannot protect themselves in such conditions, making them vulnerable. Additionally, stray dogs often carry infectious diseases, posing a threat to the forest’s wildlife and biodiversity. Moreover, the lack of food and water in the forest could lead to starvation and death for these animals.
