Pune Authorities Reassess Stray Dog Control Plan, Feeders Voice Fears

As of November 13, 2025, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is re-evaluating its stray dog control plan in response to a recent Supreme Court order. Last month, on November 7, the court directed all states and Union Territories to remove stray dogs from educational institutions, hospitals, sports complexes, bus stands, and railway stations, and relocate them to designated shelters after sterilization and vaccination.

The PMC's chief veterinary officer, Dr. Sarika Funde, confirmed that the civic body has initiated surveys and consultations to understand the scope of the directive. While the ongoing Animal Birth Control (ABC) program continues, the PMC is now prioritizing both public safety and animal welfare in its revised approach.

However, the latest ruling has reignited fears among local dog feeders and rescuers, who view the relocation of strays from their "homes" as impractical and inhumane. They argue that the government should instead focus on strengthening the ABC program, which allows for sterilization, vaccination, and release of dogs back to their original locations.

As Pune awaits the PMC's updated action plan, animal welfare volunteers are urging the authorities to consult with local feeders and NGOs before any mass relocation efforts, in order to ensure a balanced and humane solution.