No dog relocation without consulting petitioners, ministry

The High Court yesterday dropped from its cause list a writ petition that sought a stay order on Dhaka South City Corporation's (DSCC) move to relocate stray dogs from areas under its jurisdiction. 

The HC bench of Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam and Justice Mohammad Ali passed the order, after Attorney General (AG) AM Amin Uddin, on behalf of DSCC mayor, told the court that DSCC will not relocate dogs without consulting the writ petitioners and ministries concerned, Saqeb Mahbub, a lawyer for the petitioners, told The Daily Star.

He said they can move the same petition before the HC for necessary orders, if any further move is taken to relocate the dogs in the city.

Dog relocation is halted at present, the lawyer said. Comments from AG Amin could not be obtained instantly, as he was busy with official duties.

Lawyer Mustafizur Rahman Khan appeared for the petitioners during yesterday's hearing.

Celebrated actor Jaya Ahsan, and animal welfare organisations Obhoyaronno and People for Animal Welfare submitted the petition as public interest litigation to the HC on September 17, requesting it to stay DSCC's move to relocate stray dogs to Matuail landfill.

During hearing of the same petition, the HC bench on October 12 opined that DSCC should not continue its move to relocate the dogs until further hearing.