Ludhiana: Animal lovers in Ludhiana have launched a direct protest against MLA Kulwant Singh Sidhu, raising their voices in support of voiceless animals. A controversy sparked by a viral video has now escalated significantly. Animal lovers gathered at Kochar Market, held a protest march to the MLA’s residence, and staged a demonstration outside his home, loudly chanting slogans against him.
A statement and a video had recently surfaced in which the MLA allegedly discouraged locals from feeding community dogs (stray dogs). Additionally, allegations were raised regarding the illegal removal and relocation of dogs from their original territories.
Following the protest, the MLA’s son, Yuvraj Sidhu, met with the animal lovers to clarify the situation, after which the protest was called off.
Organizations Cite Direct Violation of Law
The protest was organized by prominent groups such as ‘Animal Lovers Help for Animals’ and ‘People for Animals.’ Animal welfare activists assert that forcibly removing voiceless animals from their territory and preventing them from being fed constitutes a direct violation of the ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act’ and the rights of community animals.
Protesters Demand an Apology
Those staging a peaceful yet firm protest outside the MLA’s home made it clear that such actions against animals would not be tolerated. Their primary demand is for the MLA to halt these actions and issue an immediate public apology for his statements and conduct regarding these voiceless animals.
The Truth Behind the Viral Video
The MLA’s son stated that the viral video was incomplete. He explained that he had visited the area only because neighbors had complained about people feeding dogs on private property and near cars. He clarified that there is no ban on feeding animals.
He suggested that instead of feeding them outside people’s homes or on private property, the animals should be fed at appropriate locations (such as ‘blind spots’). He assured that the two dogs previously removed from the area would be released back to the same location. A meeting between the animal lovers and the MLA has been scheduled for tomorrow. Following this clarification and assurance, the animal lovers called off their protest.
Aries: The day will be auspicious...