Shillong: Shillong witnessed its first public demonstration of the year on Sunday as animal welfare advocates gathered at Kyndailad in Police Bazaar to register a quiet protest in support of humane street dog management.
The silent assembly drew animal lovers, caregivers and concerned residents who called for compassion-driven and science-based approaches rather than coercive measures.
The protest followed a recent Supreme Court directive calling for the removal of street dogs from public areas nationwide.
Participants voiced apprehension that such blanket actions, if implemented without adequate planning, could undermine existing animal birth control and vaccination efforts and place severe strain on shelters, leading to greater animal suffering.
Holding placards advocating coexistence and empathy, demonstrators ensured that the gathering remained non-disruptive.
Many stressed that Shillong’s long-standing community-led practices have helped manage street dog populations ethically through sterilisation and immunisation.
ALSO READ: Indian Army powers 15,000-ft Sikkim border village with solar plant
A protester cautioned that removing dogs without building proper infrastructure would be counterproductive. “Shillong has always stood for coexistence. Hastily relocating animals will only aggravate the situation,” she said.
Organisers said the protest was symbolic but significant, intended to initiate dialogue and promote responsible policy decisions in 2026.
The gathering dispersed peacefully, underscoring a unified message from the city — that kindness and coexistence must guide any approach to street dog management.
