Shiv Thakare on Stray Dog Controversy: “If Dogs Can Be Caught in 3 Months, So Can Rapists and Criminals”

Television personality and youth icon Shiv Thakare has weighed in on the Supreme Court’s recent order mandating the capture and confinement of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR within three months, offering a pointed critique of the selective urgency in India’s justice system.

 

Speaking about the issue, Thakare said: “I am not going to say the order is completely wrong — the court is right to a certain extent. But there is a way to do things. I like the fact that the court ordered that within 3 months, all dogs must be impounded. Now, if dogs can be caught in 3 months, so can rapists and criminals. I’m sure our court and law can do that too. But I feel that this law has been passed for an animal who cannot speak for himself.”

 

Thakare’s remarks highlight a growing sentiment among critics of the court's August 11, 2025 directive, which prioritizes public safety from stray dog attacks and rabies but overlooks more pressing and consistent threats from unchecked crime.

 

He added: “Rabies and biting — sure, it’s an issue. But so is rape, murder, and other law-breaking activities. Criminals have rights and options. But somehow, the court has left everything and gone after a poor animal.”

 

Thakare also pointed out the class bias in how Indian society views dogs: “Dog lovers — there are many kinds of them. A rich dog breed is treated like family. A stray dog is called a nuisance. A pet is important, a street dog isn’t. That’s the reality.”

 

Calling for a more humane and balanced approach, Thakare urged citizens and authorities to focus on vaccination, sterilization, and compassion instead of mass removal: “Vaccinate them. Let them stay among humans. Yes, there isn’t enough space for humans — but that doesn’t mean we forget kindness.”

 

Shiv Thakare joins a growing list of public figures — including Rupali Ganguly and various activists — questioning whether the state is unfairly cracking down on the voiceless while leaving systemic crimes inadequately addressed.

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