Minister expresses strong displeasure over slow progress
Karnataka's Minister for Animal Husbandry, Krishna Byre Gowda, on Wednesday expressed strong displeasure over the sluggish implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program in Bengaluru. He questioned the lack of visible results despite significant funds allocated for the initiative. The minister was addressing a review meeting on stray dog management in the city.
According to officials present, the minister remarked, "Where's the result? We have been allocating funds and resources, but the ground reality remains unchanged. The number of stray dogs on the streets is not decreasing. This is unacceptable." He demanded a concrete action plan from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) within a week to tackle the menace effectively.
Current status of ABC program in Bengaluru
Data presented at the meeting showed that over the past three years, Bengaluru has spent approximately ₹12 crore on the ABC program, but only about 40,000 stray dogs have been sterilized out of an estimated population of 3.5 lakh. The sterilization rate is far below the target, and the high birth rate among stray dogs continues to outpace the sterilization efforts.
BBMP officials cited challenges such as difficulty in capturing dogs, lack of adequate veterinary staff, and delays in setting up new sterilization centers. The minister, however, dismissed these excuses, stating that other cities have successfully implemented similar programs. He cited the example of Chennai, which has achieved a sterilization rate of over 70% of its stray dog population.
Action plan demanded within a week
Krishna Byre Gowda directed the BBMP commissioner to submit a time-bound action plan within seven days. The plan must include measures to increase the number of sterilization surgeries per day, expand the network of animal birth control centers, and ensure proper post-operative care. He also emphasized the need for a robust monitoring mechanism to track progress.
The minister warned that failure to show improvement would lead to strict action against responsible officials. He also suggested involving NGOs and private veterinary clinics to expedite the process. "We cannot continue with business as usual. The safety and health of both citizens and stray dogs are at stake," he added.
Public health and safety concerns
The stray dog issue has become a major concern in Bengaluru, with frequent reports of dog bites and conflicts between residents and animal rights activists. According to BBMP data, over 50,000 dog bite cases were reported in the city last year alone. The unregulated breeding of stray dogs also contributes to the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases.
Residents have been demanding a more effective solution, and the minister's intervention is seen as a positive step. Animal rights groups, however, caution against any culling measures and advocate for scientific sterilization programs. The minister assured that the focus would remain on humane methods.
Way forward
The BBMP is expected to present its action plan by July 8, 2026. The plan will be reviewed by the minister, and a follow-up meeting is scheduled for mid-July. The success of the initiative will depend on the swift execution of the proposed measures and sustained political will.
