The recent Supreme Court directive permitting the culling of “dangerous” stray dogs has triggered a wave of anger and heartbreak across social media, with several Bollywood stars joining the public in condemning the move. The order, which has sparked intense debate over animal rights and public safety, has drawn sharp criticism for what many believe is an inhumane approach to managing the stray dog population.
Among those speaking out, actress Janhvi Kapoor took to her Instagram stories, expressing disbelief at the verdict. Without directly naming the court, she lamented the apparent loss of empathy in society, writing that compassion and coexistence should always outweigh cruelty. “We share this planet with them,” she reportedly said, adding that killing should never be the first solution.
Varun Dhawan, who has been an outspoken advocate for animal welfare in the past, also voiced his frustration. In a heartfelt post, the actor questioned why more humane alternatives weren’t being prioritised. “There are better ways to ensure safety without resorting to violence,” he wrote, calling the decision “deeply disappointing” and urging for rehabilitation, vaccination, and adoption drives instead of mass killings.
Other personalities from the entertainment industry, including television actors, filmmakers, and influencers, echoed similar sentiments. Many shared pictures and videos of rescued dogs, urging their followers to see strays as lives worth protecting rather than threats to be eliminated. Several also pointed out the irony of India being home to countless animal welfare laws on paper, while such a ruling threatens to undermine decades of advocacy work.
Animal rights activists have also mobilised in response, warning that the order could lead to indiscriminate culling and a spike in cruelty cases. They argue that sterilisation programs, awareness campaigns, and responsible waste management have been proven to reduce stray dog aggression more effectively than violent measures. Social media hashtags like #SaveStrays, #CompassionOverCruelty, and #JusticeForDogs began trending within hours of the celebrities’ statements going viral.
The controversy has reignited the larger conversation about how India balances public safety with animal rights. For many, the question is not whether human lives matter more than animals — but whether humanity can truly thrive when it abandons kindness towards other species.
As protests grow and petitions circulate online, the entertainment industry’s united stand suggests this battle is far from over. For now, the stars, activists, and countless animal lovers remain determined to push for a reversal of the order, believing that the nation can find a solution that safeguards both people and the voiceless creatures who share our streets.
