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| Dog Bite Cases On Rise | | | Health Minister Sakina Itoo recently informed the Legislative Assembly that more than two lakh dog bite cases were reported across the Union Territory in 2024 and 2025, with the Jammu district recording the highest number of 76,824 cases, followed by Kathua with 17,129 and Udhampur with 8,179.
The alarming rise in the number of dog bite cases in Jammu and Kashmir is a cause of concern. Authorities need to take immediate steps to save the people from facing the wrath of the dogs.
The minister said that the figures were compiled from the data received from the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), Government Medical Colleges and SKIMS and government is taking measures to address the rising number of dog bite incidents and strengthen preventive and treatment facilities across the Union Territory.
The Minister said that there is no report indicating an increase in the population of stray dogs within the limits of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC).
The statement that there is no report indicating an increase in the stray dog population within the Jammu Municipal Corporation limits raises important questions. If the population has not increased, why has the number of dog bite cases risen so sharply? This disconnect points towards other contributory factors—unchecked garbage dumps that attract dogs, encroachment of animal habitats, increased human-animal interaction, and lack of designated feeding or shelter zones. It also suggests the need for better data collection, independent audits and transparent public reporting.
Local bodies, particularly municipal corporations and councils, must take greater responsibility. Waste management reforms, regular sanitation drives and strict enforcement against open dumping are essential components of any long-term solution. Equally important is public awareness. Citizens must be educated on how to behave around stray animals, the importance of timely medical treatment after bites, and the legal and ethical aspects of animal welfare.
Ultimately, the rising dog bite incidents are a governance challenge that sits at the intersection of public health, urban management and animal welfare. Knee-jerk reactions or blame-shifting will not help. What Jammu and Kashmir needs is a comprehensive, humane and science-driven policy, backed by adequate funding and strict monitoring. The safety of people cannot be compromised, and neither can compassion be abandoned. Balancing both is the real test before the authorities—and the time to act is now. |
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