Dog bite crisis

Punjab’s stray dog crisis is spiralling out of control, with over two lakh dog bite cases reported in 2024. Ludhiana, Patiala and Mohali are leading the pack, with Mohali alone recording 16,047 cases. Yet, despite the alarming statistics and public outcry, Punjab is dragging its feet on providing financial compensation to victims, as mandated by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

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The tragic mauling of a nine-year-old boy in Nabha is a grim reminder of the growing menace. The problem is rooted in unregulated garbage dumps and sites like “hadda rodi”, where animal remains are carelessly discarded, creating a haven for feral dogs. Urban eateries dumping bones and meat waste add fuel to the fire, making the problem even worse. The authorities appear more reactive than proactive. While the Nabha SDM has ordered vaccinations and awaits reports, this piecemeal approach won’t solve a crisis of this magnitude. Punjab needs a comprehensive action plan involving sterilisation drives, waste management reforms and education campaigns. Without this, incidents like Nabha will only multiply.

Adding insult to injury, the state has failed to honour the high court’s directive to compensate victims adequately — Rs 10,000 per tooth mark and Rs 20,000 for severe wounds. For victims, this lapse is a double blow: suffering both physical trauma and bureaucratic indifference. The State Rabies Control Programme offers free vaccines, but lax enforcement of vaccination schedules could worsen health outcomes. As rising numbers of canine fury point to a silent emergency of epidemic proportions, Punjab must act decisively. It must collaborate with municipal bodies, health authorities and animal welfare groups to make cities safer for people and animals alike. Tackling dog bites needs proactive measures, not band-aids.