Shadow Correspondent
Doda, SEPT 29:
A meeting of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) was held today here at the DC Office.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Anil Kumar Thakur chaired the meeting attended by Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO) Dr. Irfan Ali Wani; Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Mushraf Haf; Vice President, SPCA, Dr. Farooq Ahmed Kelam; Treasurer, SPCA, Naseer Ahmed Khora; DySP (Headquarters) Krishan Rattan; Major Indraneel Rana, 10 RR and representatives from the Forest Department and Municipality.
The meeting was convened to discuss measures to implement the directions of the Supreme Court of India concerning management of stray dogs, besides reviving and strengthening the functioning of the Society.
The issue of stray dogs was discussed in detail, with participants stressing the need for greater public awareness and encouraging people to adopt stray dogs. The meeting also emphasised the need to dispel common misconceptions about stray dogs and promote their humane treatment. In this regard, the ADC proposed undertaking awareness campaigns through radio and social media platforms.
The issue of stray cattle, donkeys and other animals roaming on roads was also discussed, particularly their role in causing traffic hazards and road accidents. The Municipal authorities informed that such animals are seized and fines are imposed on their owners. However, it was decided to enhance fines and penalties against habitual offenders. The Police Department assured its support in addressing issues related to stray animals.
The meeting further expressed concern over the improper disposal of waste by meat shops, which attracts stray dogs around such establishments.
The Municipality was advised to ensure proper disposal of waste by all meat shops to help reduce the problem.
The society also decided to launch a membership drive through social media for enrolment of new members and renewal of memberships of existing members, as several existing members are elderly while some have passed away.
The nomination of a Senior Vice President and Joint Secretary of the SPCA was also discussed. The ADC directed the CAHO to suggest the names of two prominent animal lovers for consideration and approval for these positions.
