From John Abraham to Janhvi Kapoor, stars unite against SC’s order to relocate Delhi’s stray dogs

Dog-loving stars of Bollywood are barking back at a major Supreme Court decision that could change the lives of thousands of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR.

The top court has ordered the immediate removal of street dogs from the capital region to shelters, citing rising incidents of dog attacks and India’s high rabies numbers.

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While some welcome the move for public safety, many animal lovers, including big names from the entertainment world, are calling it unfair and inhumane.

On Tuesday, John Abraham, known for his love of animals, personally appealed to Chief Justice B. R. Gavai. In his letter, John argued that the dogs in question aren’t just “strays” but long-time residents of Delhi’s neighborhoods.

“These are community dogs, respected and loved by many, and very much Delhiites in their own right, having lived in the region as neighbours to humans for generations,” he wrote.

He described the relocation plan as “illegal, impractical, and inhumane.”

Comedian Vir Das joined the chorus with a heartfelt request to his followers: adopt indie dogs. “If you are a resident of Delhi, can I persuade you to adopt an indie off the streets? Maybe more than one? They’re healthy, low maintenance, and will give you more love, affection, and gratitude than you could imagine,” he said on social media.

Vir also urged people to help animal welfare groups and not just wait for the court appeals to play out. “It’s important for our humanity to kick in immediately. Please do your part, big or small, it all adds up,” he added.

Also Read: Vir Das appeals for indie dog adoptions amid Supreme Court’s stray dog ruling

Janhvi Kapoor, too, shared an emotional note about the role these dogs play in everyday life. She described them as “night guards for shopkeepers, friends to school-going kids, and warmth in a new city.”

Janhvi believes the solution lies in vaccination drives, sterilisation programs, and adoption campaigns, not sending them to shelters where their freedom will be lost. She encouraged everyone to speak up for “the voiceless.”

Huma Qureshi reposted a statement that painted a grim picture of street dogs’ lives; living without shelter, facing hunger, disease, neglect, cruelty, and the constant threat of accidents. The post argued that uprooting them will only worsen their suffering.

“They ask for nothing but compassion, and to live without harm,” it read.

The Supreme Court’s order comes amid rising reports of dog bites in the capital, with officials pointing to public safety concerns and the spread of rabies. However, activists and celebrities argue that removing dogs from their familiar areas will break community bonds and lead to overcrowding in shelters, many of which are already struggling with limited space, staff, and resources.

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