H&UD Department says feeding allowed only at designated spots; warns RWAs and citizens against relocating or harming stray dogs, says violations will invite legal action
Srinagar, June 29 : The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Monday prohibited the relocation or removal of stray dogs by individuals, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and other groups, while issuing fresh guidelines on designated feeding spots and animal welfare in compliance with directions of the Supreme Court.
An official from the Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department told news agency JKNS that, it is committed to implement the Supreme Court’s directions in Suo Motu Writ Petition (Civil) number 5 of 2025 concerning the welfare, protection and management of the stray animals.
Clarifying the rules for citizens, RWAs and animal welfare groups, the Department said feeding of community dogs is not prohibited but must be done only at designated feeding spots. It added that the additional feeding spots are being identified and notified across urban areas of J&K based on the population of community dogs in each ward.
The department has urged the residents to cooperate with their Municipal Corporation, Council or Committee in creating these designated spots, preferably away from the children’s parks or market areas in open and clean spaces so that hungry animals do not attack the children or passersby.
According to an official communique issued here in this regard as per JKNS, the department stressed that the relocation or removal of stray dogs by the individuals, groups or Residents’ Welfare Associations is strictly prohibited and constitutes an offence under applicable laws and the directions of the Supreme Court. It added that areas for relocation are being identified in every municipality. Until then, RWAs, citizen associations and NGOs should help feed the stray animals at designated spots and assist with sterilization and vaccination at nearby veterinary facilities.
The Department said that “little support coming from each citizen group will go a long way in addressing this menace in a humane and compassionate manner.”
“Harassing, assaulting, injuring or inflicting cruelty upon stray animals is illegal and will attract appropriate legal action under the relevant provisions of law”, maintained the department.
Appealing to all the citizens, animal welfare organizations and RWAs to act with compassion for the mutual coexistence of all living beings, the department said the measures are in the interest of both the public safety and animal welfare.
For further assistance, the residents can contact their respective Municipal Corporation, Municipal Council, Municipal Committee or officials of the Animal Husbandry Department. (JKNS)
