In the wake of the Supreme Court’s revised directive on stray dogs in Delhi-NCR, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India made a powerful appeal through a front-page ad in the Sunday editions of The Times of Indiain Delhi and Mumbai.
Rooted in the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the belief that all beings belong to one global family – the ad calls on citizens to embrace kindness across species. It underscores the moral responsibility to protect and respect all animals, not just humans.
The striking visual message reminds readers:
- Pigeons go unfed where food was once plentiful.
- Stray dogs are mistreated in the only homes they’ve known – the streets.
- Elephants remain shackled instead of roaming free.
- Cows, meant to be protected, are slaughtered for leather.
- Monkeys are taken from forests and used in labs.
PETA’s message: “Compassion isn’t just our legacy- it’s our duty. Let the soul of India lead with kindness. It costs nothing to be kind.”
This comes after the Supreme Court amended its earlier ruling which had called for all stray dogs to be permanently removed to shelters. In response to significant public and activist criticism, the court has now directed that stray dogs be sterilised and returned to their original locations, aligning with global best practices in humane animal management.
PETA’s campaign urges the public to stand with animals and reflect on India’s deep cultural roots in nonviolence and empathy.
