Dr. Ravjot Singh, Punjab Local Government Minister, assured the Vidhan Sabha today that the state government is actively addressing the issue of stray dogs, which has become a growing concern for residents across both urban and rural areas. Responding to a notice under Rule 66 moved by Sangrur MLA Narinder Kaur Bharaj, Dr. Singh acknowledged the seriousness of the problem and detailed the steps being taken to control the stray dog population and ensure public safety.
He informed the House that the government is strictly adhering to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, to manage the issue effectively. “Sterilization is the most effective solution to control the stray dog population and reduce aggression. So far, around 2,18,063 dogs have been sterilized in the state, with nearly 80,000 procedures conducted between 2022 and 2024,” he said.
Cabinet Minister Dr.Ravjot Singh further stated that under the ABC program, 14 urban local bodies have established Animal Birth Control Centers, with successful operations underway in Amritsar, Mohali, Bathinda, Patiala, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar. Additionally, eight municipal bodies have set up dog pounds for the temporary sheltering of stray animals.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to public safety, the minister highlighted that compensation provisions have been introduced for victims of animal attacks. Under The Punjab Compensation to the Victims of Animal Attacks and Accidents Policy, 2023, families of deceased victims will receive ₹5 lakh, while those suffering permanent disability will get ₹2 lakh.
Dr. Ravjot Singh assured the House that the Local Government Department, in coordination with the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj and Animal Husbandry departments, will take further steps to strengthen sterilization infrastructure and implement strict measures to effectively curb the menace.