Actor and politician Kamal Haasan has weighed in on the ongoing stray dog debate in India, urging humane solutions and compassion. His remarks come amid the Supreme Court’s revised ruling on the issue, sparking nationwide discussion.
Kamal Haasan’s statement
Actor and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan has voiced his opinion on the ongoing stray dog debate in India. Speaking to reporters outside Chennai airport, he said the solution lies in compassion and practicality. “The same animals who carried weight on their backs for decades are no longer seen on the streets. Did people rescue them? No. We must strive to save every animal as much as possible,” Haasan remarked, highlighting that societal hygiene and history show how humane solutions can coexist with progress.
Supreme Court’s changing stance
In August, the Supreme Court ordered street dogs to be shifted to shelters, a ruling that quickly sparked nationwide debate. While some supported the move for safety, others opposed it, calling it impractical and potentially harmful.
Facing backlash from animal lovers and activists, the Supreme Court later modified its decision. It directed that stray dogs should be caught, vaccinated, sterilised, and then returned to their localities. Only aggressive or rabid dogs are to be moved to shelters. Additionally, the court banned feeding strays in public spaces and asked civic bodies to designate specific feeding zones. The issue remains hotly debated across social media platforms.
Kamal Haasan’s film updates
On the work front, Kamal Haasan was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, marking a reunion with the director after 38 years. However, the film underperformed at the box office, receiving only a lukewarm response. Up next, Haasan is gearing up for KH 237, directed by stunt choreographer duo Anbariv. The project is expected to begin soon, though an official announcement is awaited.