Mira-Bhayander Activist Fights ₹5,000 Fine For Feeding Strays

Mira-Bhayander Municipal Corporation (MBMC) has introduced a directive that penalises citizens up to ₹5,000 for feeding stray dogs outside 20 designated areas. However, an animal welfare activist, Roshan Pathak, has raised concerns against this move, terming it 'illegal' and citing the number of designated spots as grossly inadequate.

Pathak has sent a formal representation to MBMC commissioner and Thane's deputy commissioner of animal husbandry, demanding an immediate revocation of the fine and a complete overhaul of the civic body's feeding policy. The activist highlighted that Rule 20 of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, prohibits local authorities from fining, harassing or preventing animal lovers from feeding strays.

The MBMC has designated 20 feeding spots for the entire city, which covers an expanse of 79.4 sq.km and has a population exceeding 8 lakh. Pathak argued that this is practically unviable, as dogs are inherently territorial and forcing strays to travel outside their established zones to feed can cause violent pack fights.

The activist warned that depriving strays of food within their immediate territories can lead to starvation, heightened aggression and an increased risk of dog bites and public nuisance. Pathak urged civic authorities to withdraw the ₹5,000 fine immediately and convene a joint consultation with local feeders, registered NGOs and ward representatives.

The MBMC's veterinary officer, Dr Vikram Niratle, clarified that the initial 20 feeding locations represent only the first phase of the initiative. The civic body plans to add more feeding spots, taking into account the natural territorial ranges of stray populations.

Pathak has urged MBMC to designate feeding points every 100 metres, to prevent human-animal conflict and ensure the welfare of stray dogs. The activist warned that if the issue is not resolved within five days, all animal lovers and activists in Mira-Bhayander will be obliged to take legal action and approach the High Court.

The controversy surrounding the MBMC's directive has sparked concerns among animal lovers and activists in the region. The issue highlights the need for a more effective and humane approach to managing stray dog populations in urban areas.

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has established guidelines for the welfare of stray dogs, which emphasize the importance of providing adequate food and shelter. The MBMC's move to designate feeding spots is a step in the right direction, but the civic body must ensure that the number of spots is adequate and that the feeding policy is aligned with central guidelines.

In conclusion, the MBMC's directive has sparked a controversy that highlights the need for a more effective and humane approach to managing stray dog populations in urban areas. The civic body must take into account the concerns of animal lovers and activists and work towards finding a solution that ensures the welfare of both humans and animals.