Dog feeders in Delhi and the National Capital Region have recently faced a surge in violent incidents following a Supreme Court ruling on feeding stray dogs. Many individuals who dedicate their time to caring for strays have shared harrowing experiences of being injured, harassed, and traumatized, with confusion over the court’s decision fueling tensions between feeders and residents.
One of the most shocking cases occurred in Gurugram, where 29-year-old feeder Prashanto Samanpa was brutally attacked. A video that quickly circulated on social media showed him with food buckets on his two-wheeler, speaking on the phone, when a resident suddenly struck him from behind with a wooden stick. Speaking afterward, Prashanto revealed that he suffered a bone injury and has been bedridden for days. He also claimed the attacker threatened to kill him for feeding stray dogs.
Another disturbing case was reported in Paschim Vihar. On a Wednesday night, feeder Neeti Khattar was punched in the face by a man wearing a metal ring or bangle. Videos later showed her bloodstained shirt, while she recounted that both she and her husband were struck during the assault. Neeti said she had previously endured verbal abuse but described this as her worst experience yet, leaving her deeply fearful for her family’s safety.
The backdrop to these incidents is the Supreme Court’s revised ruling on dog feeding, which allows it only in designated areas. The judgment has sown widespread confusion. Many residents view feeding outside such spaces as unlawful, while animal rights advocates, including politician Maneka Gandhi, argue the ruling is unclear. Gandhi noted contradictions in the court’s statements and urged authorities to act swiftly, warning that delays in implementing designated feeding zones would only deepen the conflict.
Feeders also allege that police are not taking their complaints seriously. In response to one incident, Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhishek Dhania claimed the matter was exaggerated, suggesting that force may have been used only to protect a child bitten by a dog. However, many feeders argue that hostility toward them has worsened since the new ruling.
Harassment has been a long-standing issue for feeders across the NCR. In Faridabad, resident Divya Nayak said she has been targeted for three years, often surrounded by sticks while feeding. Members of her Residents’ Welfare Association allegedly fined her for feeding strays and frequently film her after the ruling. She filed a complaint in late August, but claims of harassment continue.
Despite these challenges, many feeders remain determined. Neeti Khattar vowed to continue her work, saying attacks would only strengthen her resolve. Others across Delhi and NCR have echoed this sentiment, stressing their responsibility to care for strays.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has promised to install feeding boards within a month, with inspectors currently scouting suitable areas. Yet until such measures are in place, uncertainty and violence persist.
The issue is not confined to Delhi NCR. In Punjab, the growing stray dog population has raised similar concerns, prompting municipalities to debate stricter rules. Chandigarh, by contrast, has been recognized for collaborative animal welfare efforts, though confusion and conflict over feeding practices are spreading to nearby areas like Mohali.
The rise in attacks highlights the urgent need for clarity and swift action from authorities. With dog feeders attacked after the Supreme Court ruling, fear and hostility have escalated. Unless regulations are clearly defined and enforced, both feeders and the animals they care for remain at risk.
