In Greater Faridabad, a housing society’s Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) has imposed a hefty fine on a woman for feeding stray dogs in areas not permitted by society rules. Divya Nair, who works at a private company and is known in her neighborhood for her compassion toward animals, has been fined ₹1.3 lakh for feeding strays at Princess Park, Sector 86, since 2022. The RWA maintains that it had designated a specific feeding area in the market zone, but Nair continued feeding dogs in parks, basketball courts, and parking lots, which they say created a mess and raised safety concerns.
Police officials, however, clarified that RWAs have no legal authority to fine residents. A senior officer said the association cannot impose penalties and that action can be taken only if Nair files a complaint. The issue also ties into recent Supreme Court rulings on the management of stray dogs. While the Court allowed sterilized dogs to be released back into their communities, it prohibited feeding stray animals in public spaces and mandated the establishment of specific feeding zones.
The conflict escalated when Nair alleged on social media that she was attacked for feeding dogs and that her family faced police harassment. She claimed that the RWA brought in female bouncers to enforce the feeding ban after last week’s court ruling. Nair expressed concern that around 40 stray dogs in her neighborhood are now left without food.
RWA vice-president Ranmeek Chahal defended the association’s stance, stating that Nair repeatedly violated rules despite multiple warnings. He cited safety concerns, noting that the society reports around 8 to 10 dog bite cases each month, with over 100 incidents so far, affecting both children and elderly residents. Chahal added that if Nair does not pay the fine, the association will pursue legal action through the registrar and courts under the Society Act. He also hinted at possible restrictions on essential services and difficulties in selling her flat if she refuses to comply.
This is not the first time Nair has clashed with the RWA. Two years ago, she was accused of biting a security guard and a resident during a dispute over stray dog feeding. The RWA said it has attempted to communicate with her, but she either declined meetings or stopped responding to calls and messages. Reporters also failed to reach her for comments.
Municipal authorities have approved plans for designated feeding points in line with broader legal directives on stray dog management. Yet, the standoff between Nair and the RWA reflects a wider challenge across urban India, where stray dog populations are growing. Similar tensions are seen in other cities such as Mohali and Chandigarh. The case highlights the need to strike a balance between compassion for animals and public safety as communities and policymakers grapple with the complexities of stray animal welfare.
