Nathdwara/Udaipur, June 12: Allegations of cruelty against stray dogs in the temple town of Nathdwara have triggered strong reactions from animal welfare activists. The Udaipur-based Animal Protection Society (APS) has accused the municipal administration of violating animal welfare norms and Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules while handling local stray dogs.
According to APS founder Dr. Mala Matha, the organization received information on June 10 that stray dogs had been captured and confined in cages at the municipal canine facility. The society alleged that prohibited dog-catching equipment was used during the operation and that the animals were not provided with adequate food and water.
Acting on the information, Dr. Mala Matha and Kiran Bhavsar visited the canine house on June 11. They claimed that several dogs that had reportedly been brought to the facility were missing, while only three dogs were found confined inside cages. One of the animals was allegedly injured and in need of medical attention. APS further alleged that basic welfare arrangements for the animals were inadequate.
The organization stated that it had previously offered assistance to the municipal authorities for the sterilization and treatment of stray dogs in Udaipur. However, according to the society, sufficient steps were not taken to address the issue.
Previous Incidents Cited
APS also referred to several earlier incidents involving alleged violations of animal welfare regulations. The organization claimed that cases of illegal relocation of stray dogs had surfaced in December 2024 and February 2026, drawing objections from the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) and the State Animal Welfare Board.
The society further alleged that in February 2025, plans to conduct an Animal Birth Control program without adequate infrastructure had raised concerns among animal welfare groups. It also cited a May 2025 case involving an allegedly neglected sick dog and a memorandum submitted to district authorities in December 2025 seeking action against recurring instances of alleged cruelty.
Demand for Investigation
APS stated that the three dogs recovered from the canine facility were transported to Udaipur for treatment and sterilization. The organization has urged the Chief Minister, Rajsamand district administration, and the Animal Husbandry Department to conduct a thorough inquiry and take action against any officials found responsible for violations of animal welfare laws.
As of the filing of this report, a detailed official response from the Nathdwara Municipal Council regarding the allegations had not been received. The matter continues to attract attention from animal welfare organizations and local residents, who are calling for an impartial investigation into the incident.