An independent MLA’s statement on how Maharashtra should deal with its canine population has drawn flak from animal activists, India Today reported.
Omprakash Babarao Kadu or Bacchu Kadu, an independent MLA from Achalpur and leader of the Prahar Janshakti Party, said all stray dogs from Maharashtra should be sent to Assam as the residents there have dog meat and it is a viable option to deal with the state’s canine population.
Kadu made the statements in response to a discussion over the issue of street dogs menace raised by MLAs Pratap Sarnaik and Atul Bhatkhalkar in the Maharashtra Assembly.
Kadu said it is wise to send all stray dogs from the state to Assam as people there consume dog meat. Quoting his recent visit to Assam, Kadu said dogs in Assam are sold for Rs 8,000-Rs 9,000 and called upon traders to find a solution to tackle the stray dog menace in Maharashtra.
Taronish Balsara, founder of World for Animals NGO, called out the MLA for making such insensitive and bizarre statements. “The MLA’s statement…goes against the good work being done by the government for animals. Dislocating and slaughtering dogs is totally wrong,” he said.
“People are unaware about animal laws so they need to be made aware first. Birth control is a legal and ethical way. Unsterilisation of dogs is a huge problem…I don’t know about the legalities in Assam but in Maharashtra, relocating dogs is not legal,” said Balsara.
Kadu’s comments have also left animal rights activists fuming, who are alarmed with the MLA’s insensitivity in dealing with the issue of stray dogs.
“Dogs have been companion animals, not meat for human beings. In fact, dog meat is known to carry various harmful toxins when consumed. To help with stray dog population, the only ethical and effective manner is animal birth control, which should be carried out in a very strategic and structured manner by local authorities. All animals have the right to live with dignity and respect. While the world is moving towards veganism, or ethical and sustainable practices, this (MLA’s statement) is uncalled for,” said Meenal Rajda, co-founder of Youth Organization in Defence of Animals.
