Black Thursday: Activists Rally for Street Dogs' Rights

Animal rights activists staged a 'Black Thursday' protest at Jantar Mantar against the Supreme Court's directive for relocating stray dogs. They called for compassion and pledged self-organized sterilization efforts to create a rabies-free India, emphasizing the lawful and humane Animal Birth Control program over government relocation plans.

In a demonstration advocating for the rights of street dogs, animal rights activists and caregivers gathered at Jantar Mantar to mark 'Black Thursday.' The protest targeted a recent Supreme Court directive on relocating stray canines, sparking calls for an alternative approach.

Dressed in black and armed with placards, protesters demanded justice with messages like 'Vaccinate, sterilise, return not remove' and 'Kindness is our strength, let street dogs live.' They argue that sterilisation and vaccination, under the Animal Birth Control program, is the humane and lawful path forward.

Critics of the court ruling, including activist Mukesh Kumar, pledged to take the matter into their own hands, aiming to create a rabies-free India without relying on state mechanisms. The protest, which will span four days, underscores growing discontent over animal welfare practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)