TMC revokes order on feeding strays inside hsg complex

The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), which had recently issued an order to remove feeding spots for stray dogs inside Lodha Amara housing complex in Thane, has now revoked its decision following protests from animal rights activists and dog feeders. TMC's fresh notice clarifies that dog feeding is legally allowed at the earmarked feeding sites, as per the provisions of animal welfare laws and rules.Activist Roshan Pathak of Pure Animal Lovers (PAL) Foundation, said: "There are over 60 local community dogs inside Lodha Amara society who are being looked after by dog feeders. These feeders, however, are being harassed by some animal haters. We had therefore demanded that the TMC allow animal feeding because the feeding spots were allocated after a proper study in Oct this year." Pathak added that the TMC order to cancel feeding spots could be a result of political pressure in the wake of upcoming the municipal elections, with an aim to appease those against stray animals. As per the Supreme Court order dated Oct 20, 2022 (SLP Civil Diary No. 35297/2022), feeding of community dogs cannot be stopped, and local authorities must create an organised feeding system through designated feeding points and registration of feeders.The order does not permit denial of feeding. It only regulates the process to ensure safety for both humans and animals. As per the latest TMC order signed by deputy municipal commissioner, Umesh Birari, feeding of local stray dogs within the society complex is being done legally, after due scrutiny by the civic body. "The stray dogs living within the housing complex cannot be relocated outside the society limits. Also, feeding of the stray dogs cannot be stopped at the earmarked feeding spots," stated the formal order.