Archive · 14 Aug 2025
MLC Admits Ordering Mass Stray Dog Poisoning in Chikkamagaluru
In 1996, when he was in charge of Chikkamagaluru's local government, S.L. Bhojegowda ordered the killing of around 2,800 stray dogs by poisoning them.
He said he did this because of worries about stray dogs biting people, particularly children, and because leopards were coming into town looking for the dogs.
The dogs were poisoned using meat and then buried.
Bhojegowda is ready to face any consequences from admitting this.
A former council member confirmed the poisoning, which was done with help from an NGO because of lots of dog bite cases.
MLC S.L. Bhojegowda admitted to ordering the poisoning of approximately 2,800 stray dogs in Chikkamagaluru in 1996.
The poisoning occurred during Bhojegowda's time as President of the Chikkamagaluru City Municipal Council (CMC).
The dogs were poisoned using meat and buried in a coconut plantation, according to Bhojegowda.
Bhojegowda stated the decision was due to concerns about stray dog bites, especially affecting children.
A former CMC councillor confirmed the mass poisoning was carried out with NGO support due to dog bite cases.
- Who
- S.L. Bhojegowda, then President of CMC, ordered the killings.
- What
- Mass poisoning of approximately 2,800 stray dogs.
- When
- 1996
- Where
- Chikkamagaluru
- Why
- Due to concerns about dog bites and the presence of leopards.
Animal Welfare Advocates
Government Officials and Public Safety
Ethical Concerns
Animal Welfare Advocates
Advocates likely condemn the mass killing, citing ethical concerns and promoting alternative solutions.
Government Officials and Public Safety
The article does not explicitly state an opposing view.
- Person Involved
- S.L. Bhojegowda
- Position Held
- President of Chikkamagaluru CMC (1996), Current MLC
- Location
- Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka
- Approximate Number of Dogs Killed
- 2,800
- Method
- Poisoning with meat