Over 1,000 Stray Dogs Reportedly Killed In Telangana, India, In A Month-Long Mass Culling
A disturbing wave of violence against animals has been reported in Telangana, India, where media and activist sources say more than 1,000 stray dogs have been killed across multiple villages, sparking outrage from animal welfare groups and communities throughout India and around the world.
In Jagtial district, authorities discovered approximately 300 dead dogs buried in a pit. Additional cases were reported in Hanamkonda, Kamareddy, and Nagarkurnool districts, where dozens more stray dogs were found dead. While media reports and activists estimate that roughly 1,000 to 1,200 dogs may have died in the recent killings, official totals have not yet been released by authorities.
Eyewitnesses and local animal welfare groups report that some of the dogs were poisoned or killed through injections, with possible use of chemicals such as magnesium sulphate. Forensic teams are examining the carcasses to determine the exact causes of death and confirm the substances used.
Telangana police have registered First Information Reports (FIRs) under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and related laws. Several village leaders and other individuals have been implicated in connection with the killings. Investigations remain ongoing.
India is home to one of the largest populations of stray dogs in the world, estimated at tens of millions. While government programs such as Animal Birth Control (ABC) initiatives aim to sterilize and vaccinate stray dogs, these programs are inconsistently implemented, especially in rural areas. Rising incidents of dog bites have, at times, contributed to illegal mass killings, despite laws prohibiting cruelty to animals.
WAN and Peace 4 Animals strongly condemn these killings, urging authorities to enforce animal protection laws and implement humane population control alternatives. Activists warn that without immediate action, similar incidents may continue, putting both stray dogs and public trust in the local government at risk.
Take Action: Sign the petition calling on authorities in India to stop stray dog culls and implement Animal Birth Control (ABC) initiatives to sterilize and vaccinate stray dogs in Telangana. Sign the petition HERE!
