Bollywood stars resent top court order on stray dogs

(Web Desk) - The Supreme Court of India's recent order to move all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelters has sparked nationwide outrage, with animal lovers across the country protesting against the move.

Several actors have joined in the protest, using their social media reach to post adoption appeals and voice their dissent.

On August 11, a bench of Justices Pardiwala and R Mahadevan ordered the Delhi-NCR to start removing stray dogs from all localities within eight weeks and house them in dedicated dog shelters to be set up by civic authorities.

The order of the top court came on a suo motu proceeding initiated by it over a media report on the growing menace of stray dog attacks leading to rabies.

Actor John Abraham has written to Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, urging him to review the order. In his letter, John wrote, "I hope you will agree that these are not 'strays' but community dogs — respected and loved by many, and very much Delhiites in their own right, having lived in the region as neighbours to humans for generations."

Actor-comic Vir Das took to Instagram on Monday evening, urging Delhiites to consider adopting an indie dog if they can. "If you are a resident of Delhi. Can I persuade you to adopt an indie off the streets, more than one? They are extremely healthy, low maintenance, and will provide you with more love, affection and gratitude than you could ever imagine.

Bhumi Pednekar narrated the story of how she had adopted an injured indie, Bruno, and helped nurse him back to health, who has been a source of joy for her family.

Actors Janhvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan have also reacted, re-sharing a post that called the decision a "death sentence for all dogs".

Veteran actor Zeenat Aman asked for a "more humane, logical and science-backed approach to the issue."

Sonakshi Sinha shared, "Day by day we expose how soulless we have become as a society. Every day is a disappointment."

Stars from other parts of the country joined in the protest, as well. Actor Kichcha Sudeepa said that while he does not want to question the court's decision, which "may have its reasons," he is worried about the "well-being" of the animals and how it will affect their lives.