Guwahati: GMC’s removal of stray animals sparks outrage in city

Staff reporter

Guwahati: As Guwahati gears up for the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a recent move by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) to remove stray animals from Boragaon has triggered widespread criticism and outrage among local residents. The decision, which many believe to be an unnecessary and insensitive action, has raised concerns about the treatment of animals and the broader implications of urban governance during high-profile visits.

According to residents, the sudden removal of stray animals has caused distress not only to the animals themselves but also to the people who have grown accustomed to their presence. Speaking to The Sentinel, a Guwahati resident voiced his frustration, stating, “How can they take away animals just because the PM is visiting? They are already harassing people with all the restrictions, and now they have taken cows too. It’s unfair.”

Echoing similar sentiments, another local resident remarked, “These animals have been here for years and have never caused any trouble. Now, just because of a VIP visit, they are being taken away like this. It feels unfair and unnecessary.”

The backlash from citizens has prompted GMC to issue an official order clarifying its stance on the matter. According to the order, the removal of stray animals is being conducted in preparation for two major upcoming events—Advantage Assam 2.0 and Jhumoir Binandini. The directive, issued by GMC’s Veterinary Branch, mandates that lessees of animal pounds adhere to established guidelines, maintain proper records of captured animals, and document the entire process through photographs and CCTV footage. Additionally, officials have been instructed to display banners on vehicles used for the operation to ensure transparency.

Despite the municipal corporation’s attempts to justify its actions as a routine measure for maintaining order during significant events, many citizens believe that such steps prioritize aesthetics and political optics over the genuine well-being of both animals and local communities.

The incident has reignited a broader debate on the ethics of urban management during VIP visits. Many question whether temporary clean-ups and last-minute removals of perceived ‘nuisances’ truly serve the interests of a city’s residents or merely contribute to a superficial display of orderliness. Critics argue that the GMC should instead focus on sustainable solutions, such as proper stray animal management policies, feeding programmes, and sterilization drives, rather than resorting to abrupt removals that leave both animals and citizens distressed.

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