INR 5000 Fine for Unauthorised Stray Dog Feeding in Dehradun

Dehradun: A new four-pronged policy has been approved by the Dehradun Municipal Corporation which aims at better managing the stray dog population in the city. The central provision of this policy is a INR 5000 fine for feeding stray dogs at non-designated public spots. 

This policy was designed in alignment with the Supreme Court’s latest directive, which calls for a humane and systematic approach to stray dog control, including mandatory sterilisation and vaccination measures. The DMC plans to update existing shelters, expanding kennel capacity from 72 to about 200 kennels and increasing the duration of dogs’ stay from 5 days to 15-20 days. During this time, dogs will receive additional vaccination and training to favour their return to the community. The DMC also intends to establish 20 to 25 designated feeding shelters across the city. 

Authorities have also introduced strict provisions for pet owners signalling a broader push for responsible ownership. Under which a fine of INR 5,000 will be imposed on those keeping pets that are either unregistered or not vaccinated. In addition, pet dogs that are found defecating in public places or roaming around freely will attract a penalty of INR 3,000. The broader strategy includes a strengthened vaccination schedule, moving from a single annual dose to three doses in the first year, along with efforts to promote adoption through collaboration with NGOs.

However, the policy has drawn strong criticism from pet owners and animal rights groups who argue that the measures are excessively punitive. Critics maintain that the policy unfairly targets individuals who care for stray animals without addressing foundational issues such as insufficient sterilisation programmes and lack of humane alternatives.

As Dehradun moves ahead with implementing these regulations, the debate continues, a clash between urgent public safety measures and the pursuit of compassionate, long-term animal welfare solutions.