Man-Dog Conflict Result of Fractured System and Apathetic Governance

Objective: The objective of this paper is to look into the reasons why ABC-AR (Animal birth control and Anti Rabies) program which is in existence since 2001 in India has miserably failed to control the community / stray dog population and canine rabies. Theoretical Framework: India a country which was once the epitome of non-violence and peaceful coexistence between humans and animals has today become quite intolerant and violent towards community animals especially dogs. Cruelties towards dogs such as killings, beatings, relocations etc. have become quite common. In spite of having animal protection laws and ABC (Animal Birth Control) rules man-dog conflict has only increased over the years. This paper looks into the answers for these cruelties by understanding the historical background of Indian dogs prior to colonial regime and post colonial regime in India and how the colonial influence led to change in people’s attitude towards dogs and how the current government policies and its implementation are adversely affecting welfare of dogs. Method: The paper is divided into four parts. Part one is literature review which talks about the status of Indian dogs prior to colonial domination in India and post-colonial period i.e. after independence. Part two throws light on ABC-AR program and its implementation in India using secondary data. In Part three an empirical study is conducted using questionnaire to study the limitations and gaps in ABC-AR program and Part four summarizes the study by giving findings along with recommendations. Results and Discussion: The results obtained reveal faulty system, lack of awareness amongst the masses & lack of community engagemnt the prime reasons for failure of ABC-AR program Research Implications: The recommendations given in the study will immensely help the policymakers and enforcement agencies in effective implementation of ABC-AR program and hence reduce man-dog conflict and eradicate canine rabies from India. Originality/Value: This kind of study focused on incompetencies and loopholes in the system leading to dog cruelties in India is quite new, hence this will be an eye opener for government and non-government sectors engaged in animal welfare both in India and other countries where ABC-AR program are being run to control stray dog population and eradicate canine rabies.