DSEL steps in to prevent stray dog infestation in all educational institutions in Karnataka

The Principal Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) has issued a circular to prevent stray dog menace on the premises of schools and Pre-University (PU) Colleges in the State in wake of a recent Supreme Court’s directive.

Officials have been instructed to provide the number of dogs on the premises of all educational institutions to urban and rural local bodies.

“Once the dogs are moved from the premises of the educational institution, a compound/fence should be constructed around the premises of the institution to prevent stray dogs from entering the premises again,” V. Rashmi Mahesh, Principal Secretary, DSEL, has said.

She has directed that the headmaster/principal/senior assistant teacher of the respective school be appointed as the nodal officer to oversee all these activities and coordinate with local bodies.

“Officials of Public Instruction and Pre-University Department should coordinate with the heads of schools/colleges under their jurisdiction, urban and rural local bodies and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent stray dogs from roaming in the premises of schools and colleges. Also, a meeting of the heads of schools and colleges should be held every 15 days and followed up. The Commissioners and Directors of the department should monitor this issue,” she added.

Animal activists oppose

Animal activists, however, have expressed strong opposition to the relocation of stray dogs and urged the DSEL to withdraw the circular.

Arun, an animal activist from Bengaluru, said: “It is the fundamental duty of all citizens to show compassion for animals. Children should be taught about nature and the protection of animals and birds in schools and colleges. Instead, this circular is to expel stray dogs from the premises of school, colleges and instil hatred in children against them. Dogs are not wild animals. There is no example of dogs biting children in school and colleges.”

“We have decided to appeal against the SC order and more than 1.5 lakh animal activists have already written to the Chief Justice of India (CJI) opposing this verdict. The DSEL should not implement this directive of the Supreme Court in the State for any reason and the circular should be withdrawn immediately,” he urged.