In a heated Mahadangal prime time debate on ABP News, anchor Chitra Tripathi presented alarming statistics on rising stray dog attacks across India in 2025. Recent cases from Odisha, Chennai, Thane, and Visakhapatnam revealed tragic deaths caused by rabid dog bites, sparking outrage among citizens. Panelists expressed concern over the government’s inefficiency in implementing sterilization and vaccination programs. Critics argued that despite the Supreme Court’s recent verdict protecting stray dogs’ rights, aggressive incidents are increasing, and public safety is being compromised. A major concern raised was the cost of post-bite treatments, ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹16,000, which many citizens cannot afford. While dog lovers defended the Supreme Court’s decision and emphasized compassion and scientific population control, others demanded accountability and questioned why these animals aren’t adopted by dog lovers themselves. Shelter capacity, funding, and municipal capability were also hotly debated. Some panelists stressed that human lives must take precedence. Others argued that animal rights do not negate the need for effective governance and safe public spaces. As the Supreme Court calls for a national policy, the debate on whether public safety or animal compassion should prevail remains unresolved.


