Kamal Ghorui
Public anger is brewing across the country over the alleged “illegal” removal and “mistreatment” of community dogs by authorities at Delhi’s IGI Airport, after a series of disturbing videos went viral on social media.One widely circulated video shows a brown stray dog, Dholu, being tied with ropes and dragged across Terminal 1 by sanitation workers on April 2. Animal rights activists have alleged the use of wire nooses and rough handling, describing the incident as a clear case of cruelty.In a separate incident days earlier, Kaddu — a 14-year-old, toothless female dog familiar to regular flyers — reportedly disappeared from Terminal 3. Local feeders claim she was forcibly relocated by airport authorities, in violation of animal protection laws.The videos have sparked online campaigns under hashtags such as #JusticeForDholu and #BringKadduBack, drawing widespread condemnation from animal lovers and frequent travellers alike.“It is evident from the videos that the two friendly dogs have been unlawfully removed by airport authorities. We demand that long-time community dogs be allowed to remain on airport premises,” said Gurgaon resident Mini Mehra, a frequent flyer.Activists have since escalated the matter legally, seeking action against airport authorities and their contractors for allegedly violating India’s Animal Birth Control Rules, which prohibit the relocation of sterilized community dogs from their designated territories.A Delhi court has also intervened, asking local police to explain why no FIR has been registered so far. The next hearing is scheduled for April 29.Activists warn that any confirmed acts of cruelty could invite strict penalties under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.“Based on the court’s decision, we will decide our next course of action. We are also planning to file a separate petition with the central government seeking strict action against the airport authorities,” said animal welfare activist Sanjoy Roy.Meanwhile, airport operator Delhi International Airport Limited has defended its actions, citing passenger safety concerns. The administration maintains that stray dogs are cared for under veterinary supervision and that any intervention is conducted responsibly.“We also want to inform you that the brown dog… has been carefully handled, calmed, and gently returned to its familiar area. Our approach remains rooted in care, safety, and responsible management,” Delhi Airport tweeted recently.“At the same time, we learnt from some social media posts about another dog at T3 which has reportedly been missing since 26th March. We sincerely hope it is safe and around,” it added.Frequent flyers have rejected the explanation offered by Delhi Airport authorities. “The videos are outrageous,” said Anjali Y. “Whenever my mom and I fly to Delhi for her treatment, we make it a point to cuddle Dholu, a harmless dog. We want both dogs returned to the airport premises at the earliest.”
