Sharmila Tagore and Randeep Hooda have voiced their concerns over the Supreme Court’s recent directive to relocate all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelter homes. Both stars urged a more humane and balanced approach, calling for long-term solutions that protect both people and animals while addressing the so-called ‘dog menace.‘
‘Decision is like a door closing on the voiceless’
In a video shared by Anish Gawande, National Spokesperson of the NCP, on X, the veteran actress said, “Today, we are facing a crisis of conscience. The recent Supreme Court decision is like a door closing on the voiceless and defenceless of our society. I wish the safety and sanctity of life was at the heart of the judgement.”Calling for a more balanced response, she added, “I wish a more nuanced and calibrated approach had been taken towards the systemic flaws that are at the root of the so-called dog menace. In silencing those who cannot protect themselves, we risk losing something essential within ourselves.”
Appeal to reconsider the order
She urged the government to reconsider the order, saying, “This need of experience over sympathy has caused tremendous harm. I hope and pray the Supreme Court will try and find a fine balance embedded in justice.”Responding to the widespread criticism, Chief Justice Gavai agreed on 13 August, to review the Court’s order.
Randeep Hooda weighs in
Reacting to this development, actor Randeep Hooda welcomed the reconsideration, tweeting: “So glad to hear that the Honourable CJI has agreed to look into the ruling about stray dogs in NCR. Passing a law and implementing a law should be, firstly, humane — and secondly, the infrastructure and sensitivity need to be taken care of.”He acknowledged the complexity of the issue, “Are stray dogs our collective community humanitarian responsibility? Yes. Can they be a menace? Yes. I love animals — but will I be able to justify it to a family that has lost a loved one to rabies or serious injuries? No.”
Long-term solutions recommended
Randeep warned that mass impounding is neither practical nor humane. He recommended long-term measures such as large-scale, repeated neutering, relocating aggressive dog packs, and encouraging adoption.Sharmila Tagore recently returned to Bengali cinema with Puratawn, released in April and directed by Suman Ghosh, marking her first Bengali film in 14 years. Randeep Hooda’s latest release is the action thriller Jaat (April 10), where he plays the antagonist opposite Sunny Deol.
