Govt , MC Need Concrete Plan to Prevent Incidents of Dog Bites: Nanda

BJP State Media Coordinator Karan Nanda has expressed deep concern over the stray dog attack on a two-year-old girl in Shimla’s Shankli area, calling the incident both tragic and alarming. During his visit to IGMC, he met the child’s family, enquired about her condition, and wished her a speedy recovery.

Referring to media reports, Nanda said the toddler was playing in her courtyard on Sunday evening when a stray dog allegedly attacked her and carried her nearly 25 metres away before locals intervened and rescued her. The child suffered serious injuries to her head, back, and other parts of her body and is currently undergoing treatment at IGMC.

He said the incident has raised serious concerns about public safety, noting that even a home’s courtyard should be a safe space for children. Nanda urged the state government and district administration to ensure the girl receives the best possible medical care and that her family is provided financial assistance as per existing norms.

Calls for Action on Stray Dog Menace

Highlighting reports that Shimla has over 3,500 stray dogs, including more than 100 identified as aggressive, Nanda demanded that the Municipal Corporation release updated data and clarify the action taken so far.

He called for an immediate survey of vulnerable areas, including Shankli, and urged authorities to strengthen safety measures around schools, Anganwadi centres, hospitals, and densely populated localities.

Nanda also proposed:

• Formation of a dedicated stray dog response team.
• A helpline for registering complaints.
• Intensified sterilization and anti-rabies vaccination drives.
• Expert-led action against aggressive or rabies-suspected dogs.
• Improved waste management to prevent stray dog congregations.
• Adequate availability of anti-rabies vaccines and treatment facilities in hospitals.

Demand for Accountability

Nanda further demanded a thorough investigation into the incident, including a review of previous complaints from the area and the response to them. He said accountability must be fixed if negligence is found at any level.

Stressing the need to balance animal welfare with public safety, he said the issue should be addressed in a scientific, humane, and lawful manner. Nanda urged the government, district administration, and Municipal Corporation to prepare and implement a time-bound action plan to prevent such incidents in the future, emphasizing that children’s safety must remain the highest priority.