Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Jul 14: A recent move by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to feed 4,000 stray dogs daily has stirred strong public reactions, ranging from sarcastic questions about serving “biryani” to concerns over public spending, nutrition, and urban dog control.

Among the critics was Bangalore Rural MP Dr. CN Manjunath, who questioned the practicality of feeding dogs chicken and whether BBMP could manage such a programme citywide. Many citizens echoed similar doubts—asking why these dogs can’t be kept in shelters, if feeding would lead to population growth, and whether such expenses were justified.

In response, BBMP officials have publicly defended the initiative, clarifying that it is both legally mandated and scientifically backed.

According to Suralkar Vikas Kishor, Special Commissioner of Animal Husbandry, the programme evolved from efforts that began during the Covid-19 pandemic and has been refined based on past learnings. More importantly, it is a requirement under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, issued by the Animal Welfare Board of India.

As part of the plan, each identified dog will receive a nutritionally balanced meal of 367.5g—containing boiled chicken, rice, and vegetables, amounting to roughly 750 calories. The meals will be served at 11 a.m. daily at nearly 100 feeding locations, and the total cost of the project is estimated at Rs 2.88 crore annually.

Suralkar emphasized that the goal is not indulgence, but public health and safety. Regular feeding reduces aggressive behavior, curbs dog bites, and facilitates easier catching for sterilisation and vaccination—which in turn supports effective control of rabies and zoonotic diseases.

He also clarified misconceptions: nowhere in the official documents is the term "biryani" used, and institutionalising or relocating strays into shelters is prohibited under Indian law. He added, “Dogs are carnivores, and this meal plan is based on veterinary guidance.”

Of the city’s estimated 2.7 lakh stray dogs, only the most vulnerable 4,000 have been selected for this initiative. In other areas, volunteers and NGOs continue to manage dog feeding efforts.

Animal activist Arun Prasad backed the programme, saying feeding strays is the legal and moral responsibility of local bodies. “There are many of us who feed strays from our own pockets. After persistent efforts, BBMP has finally stepped in. And let’s be honest—compared to where public money often goes, this is a small, meaningful investment.”

The debate may continue, but BBMP has made its case: the goal is public safety, humane treatment, and responsible population control—not pampering.