Introduction

In light of the dog biting incident on 16th March 2024, a revised policy to avoid human-animal conflict was released on 6th June 2024, issued by the ADean III IPS alongside the Human Animal Conflict Management Committee (HACMC). The HACMC is primarily a policy-formulating body aiming to minimise human-animal conflict on campus. Its present convener is Prof. Bhalchandra Puranik, and the previous convener, who released the policy was Prof. Viswanathan N Nurni. 

Insight got the opportunity to interact with multiple stakeholders involved in ensuring a positive and safe human-animal coexistence on campus. These include the policymakers, the Chief Medical Officer, the Public Health Office Head and people from the IITB community who take care of stray animals. Through this article, we delve into the intricacies of the policy, the rationale behind it and how the institute plans to address and mitigate human-animal conflicts moving forward.

What had happened?

March 16th :-

An email dated March 16, 2024, sent by the ADean III IPS and signed by the ex-Human Animal Conflict Management Committee (HACMC) Convener, informed students that a stray dog had entered the campus and bitten 11 people. The email urged those who had been bitten to seek immediate medical attention and encouraged residents to take precautions when feeding dogs. It also mentioned that the PHO team had captured the dog and BMC had been informed.

March 22nd :- 

A subsequent email was sent on March 22nd, informing that the dog had been captured and had died while in BMC custody. Since it was unclear whether the dog was rabid, those who had been in contact with the dog (bitten, touched, or exposed to its saliva) were strongly urged to receive a dose of immunoglobulin from the IITB hospital immediately.

March 23rd :-

After the unfortunate dog bite incident, a counselling and Q&A session was conducted at F C Kohli Auditorium, Kanwal Rekhi (KreSIT) building on Saturday, March 23. The officials present included the CMO, ADean III IPS, and ex-HACMC convenor. 

The next day, the then DD AIA, Prof S Sudarshan sent an email to summarise the key points discussed in the session, which are also mentioned below in the article.

April 17th :-

An email was sent by PHO that outlined precautionary measures being implemented by the institute, including the sterilisation of dogs, closing openings at campus boundaries, and taking steps to manage dog aggression based on expert advice. 

Later, the HACMC and ADean III IPS communicated other similar incidents in the subsequent months via email and the administrative actions taken in response, ensuring transparency and safety for the campus community.

June 6th :-

A new policy was released by the administration in an attempt to minimise the conflict between humans and community stray animals (primarily dogs and cats).

On the other side of the conflict, there have also been numerous incidents reported where animals have suffered injuries, either as a result of being attacked by humans or from accidents caused by reckless driving.

These incidents highlight the need for strict enforcement of safety measures to ensure harmony between animals and humans on campus.

Human-Animal Conflict Management Committee: What It Is 

The Human-Animal Conflict Management Committee (HACMC) at IIT Bombay was formed in response to the growing concerns over the interactions between humans and community animals, particularly stray dogs and cats, on campus. The idea for the committee was proposed around nine years ago and was previously known as the animal welfare committee. 

The committee’s main objective is to establish guidelines that minimise human-animal conflicts and provide solutions when such conflicts arise, ensuring a safe environment for everyone on campus. The HACMC convenor, Prof Bhalchandra Puranik, mentioned that the committee’s role is centred on policy formulation. It does not handle direct enforcement but rather focuses on framing procedures that balance the welfare of the animals and all residents on campus. 

As emphasised by its recently appointed Convener, Prof. Balchandra Puranik, one of the key objectives of the committee is to promote responsible feeding and caregiving practices for stray animals on campus. It ensures that sterilisation and vaccination drives are conducted regularly by collaborating with the Public Health Office (PHO) and other stakeholders, including BMC, students, and professors. These drives are carried out every year in October by PHO in collaboration with BMC and with the help of animal caregivers (animal feeders) on the campus. The sterilisation is also done by BMC in collaboration with an NGO ‘Mission Rabies’ and is free of cost. When an additional sterilisation drive is required, the institute funds them. All these efforts are aimed at controlling the population of stray animals on campus. At present, out of the ~250 dogs on campus, including ~40 in the research park, around 90-95% of the dogs are vaccinated and sterilised. 

Policy Analysis: Understanding the Human-Animal Conflict Policy

The Human-Animal Conflict Policy at IIT Bombay, updated in 2024, outlines several key regulations for managing the coexistence of humans and animals on campus. One of the most significant new measures is the requirement for all animal feeders to get registered, which is stated in the policy as follows:

“To ensure the above [rules adherence by the dog feeders to minimise conflict], all residents who feed animals must register through a Google form link which confirms they have read and agree with the rules (family members can be registered by the employee/student who has an IITB SSO ID). The form is available at [form link], and you must save a copy of the confirmation email received after filling the form, and show it to security/PHO/other authorised IITB personnel when asked.”

The former HACMC convenor, Prof. Viswanathan N. Nurni, clarified that although the registration requirement initially raised some concerns over privacy, its primary goal is to streamline communication with animal feeders during emergencies, such as cases of animal injuries or vaccination drives. 

Another key element of the policy is the identification of designated feeding locations for community animals:

“The feeding of animals must be done only at designated locations. The violation will cause a penalty of Rs. 500/-. The fine will be used for the well-being of the animals. The security section will impose the penalty, and repeated violations will attract stricter penalties.”

The introduction of specific feeding spots helps address concerns about stray animals causing nuisance in certain areas, while also protecting the feeders from potential harassment. The designated areas are meant to balance the right to feed animals, which is legally protected¹ (according to erstwhile IPC sections 503 and 506), with the need to minimise discomfort for others on campus. 

Prof Bhalchandra Puranik, the current HACMC convener, highlighted that while a list of designated feeding spots has been released, they are still under review. Discussions are ongoing, especially in response to concerns raised by students about dogs residing within hostels. The administration is working closely with the PHO and BMC to finalise these spots, ensuring they align with the natural behaviour of dogs and their territorial instincts, while also considering the needs and concerns of campus residents.

In addition to these points, the policy includes several other significant measures. Feeding animals is prohibited in hostels, academic areas, and high-traffic locations such as parking lots and entry gates. The policy encourages the adoption of stray dogs and cats, mandates that pets be kept on a leash, and requires pet owners to clean up after their animals. Only campus residents are permitted to have pets, while students are not allowed to adopt animals. Those interested in adoption must adhere to the BMC’s guidelines. The policy also outlines penalties for violations and informs that sterilisation and vaccination drives for stray animals will be conducted regularly. The Public Health Office will assist caretakers in treating injured animals, though the cost will be borne by feeders/caregivers. Security measures will also be taken to prevent the ingress of animals from outside the campus, and aggressive animals will be isolated and monitored as per BMC guidelines.

The overarching goal of the policy is to create a well-functioning environment where the needs of all campus residents are respected. As part of this effort, the institute is also working on enhancing enforcement mechanisms to ensure that the policy is followed consistently.

Fig.1 – Feeding Spots in the Campus

Animal Welfare Group

One of the primary stakeholders involved in the day-to-day care of stray dogs and cats on campus is a group of passionate individuals collectively part of a WhatsApp group called “Animal Welfare IITB”. This community includes students, residents, and professors who actively engage in feeding and caring for the animals. Their activities include feeding the dogs and cats in the institute and taking care of them. Within the group, members share information about any injuries or accidents involving the animals and coordinate efforts to ensure the animals receive proper care. When notified of an issue, caretakers either take the animals to an external veterinary doctor or treat them with commonly available medicines. They also often help the PHO identify the dogs and cats and help them out with sterilisation, as the dogs are already quite friendly with them. 

The medical treatment for injured or sick animals is funded by the group’s collectively pooled money. This group is not officially recognised by the administration but the administration is aware of the group and appreciates their efforts in creating an equal living space for both animals and humans. The administration had also consulted some of the group’s professors while drafting the aforementioned policy. In fact, a few professors from this group have collaborated to create a dedicated website, which consolidates crucial resources related to animal welfare. It includes guidelines issued by the BMC and other relevant legal information, aiming to provide a comprehensive platform for spreading awareness and ensuring the well-being of stray animals.

Insight talked to some of the active members of the community about their views on the policy.

One of the major concerns raised by the animal feeders is the policy’s ban on feeding dogs within hostel premises [Point 3]. Although the policy does not clearly state what falls under hostel premises, feeders are concerned that this may create challenges in feeding the dogs. Dogs, being territorial by nature, occupy specific areas and avoid entering other dogs’ territories, making it difficult for them to be fed outside their occupied areas. They also mentioned that there are a few older dogs who stay inside the hostel premises and hence need to be fed there. The feeders have requested that certain secluded areas around the hostels be designated for feeding these dogs.

This issue becomes even more pressing during the monsoon season, as dogs tend to seek shelter under buildings and structures. Currently, it is difficult to feed dogs during the monsoon due to the lack of sheds at the designated feeding spots. Addressing these needs requires a collaborative approach to ensure the well-being of all animals. The animal welfare group has suggested increasing the number of shelters for dogs during the monsoon, along with establishing care centres for senior dogs.

The group additionally highlighted that there have been incidents of dogs potentially being displaced which could have led to their deaths. It is illegal to displace or relocate dogs under Section 11(1) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. However, it is uncertain if formal action has been taken against the offenders.

One of the community members stated that a major cause of accidents involving animals was vehicles and rash driving. They also emphasised the need for monitored traffic rules inside the institute. 

In certain places, there is no CCTV installed due to which in the event of an accident the culprit may get away. The PHO informed us that in case somebody wishes to report and file a case to report animal cruelty, then the CCTV footage (wherever available) can be made available through the Chief Secretary Officer through a formal request. If CCTV footage is unavailable, an investigation relying on witness accounts will be necessary for any complaint or action.

Additionally, feeders frequently encounter harassment, with individuals heckling them for feeding the animals. Such incidents not only create a hostile environment for the feeders but also lead to human-human conflicts.

Another common allegation is that feeders are frequently accused of being responsible whenever a dog causes trouble or bites residents. However, there is no law in the Constitution of India that holds feeders responsible for a dog’s behaviour. Feeders believe that local residents need to be made aware of these basic legal protections related to animal feeding.

What to do if you encounter an injured animal?

The HACMC convener advises students to promptly inform the PHO if they come across an injured or distressed animal via email or contact given on their website. They can also reach out to the PHO office beside Hostel 17. Additionally, if a student is part of the animal welfare WhatsApp group, they can quickly drop a message there, allowing volunteers and the PHO to take swift action. Those interested in joining the group and supporting animal care efforts at IIT Bombay can reach out to members of the animal welfare group directly or via the PHO. 

What to do if you are attacked?

Insight interviewed the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of the IIT Bombay Hospital, Dr. Arvind Meshram, who detailed the steps students should take if they are attacked, injured, or come into contact with an animal on campus. The CMO outlined that in the case of a dog bite, the hospital follows specific protocols depending on the severity of the bite, and appropriate treatments are available at the hospital. 

Based on the conversation with CMO and the email sent by ex- DD AIA in March, here are some guidelines to assist you:

• If a growling dog approaches you, stand still and avoid eye contact; the dog shouldn’t see you as a threat.
• Dogs may chase vehicles or bicycles, mistaking them for other dogs due to scent. By stopping, the dog typically recognizes its mistake and will retreat without causing harm.
• If bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately clean the wound with soap and water
• Approach the hospital where the severity of the bite will be assessed for appropriate treatment.
• For Category 1 exposure (licks on intact skin), washing the area is sufficient, but if the dog licks an open wound or mucosal areas such as mouth and ear, vaccination is necessary.
• For Category 2 exposure (mild scratches or nibbles without bleeding), 5 doses of the rabies vaccine are required.
• For Category 3 exposure (bites with bleeding), the standard course of 5 doses of rabies vaccine should be administered along with immunoglobulin at the wound site.
• If the dog is vaccinated, a rabies vaccine may not be necessary. For domesticated dogs, ask the owner about the dog’s vaccination status.
• If bitten by a stray dog, inform the hospital. The hospital will notify the PHO, who will organise vaccination drives for the dogs in those areas.

Rabies symptoms can take up to a year to develop, and treatment is difficult once symptoms appear, so timely vaccination is crucial. Anyone with concerns about an incident can visit the IIT hospital for consultation. The rabies incubation period in dogs is 10 days, and the hospital maintains records of all dog bite cases, even if patients are treated elsewhere, and informs the PHO.

The standard course of the rabies vaccine is administered on days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28. For severe cases, the IIT Bombay Hospital also has immunoglobulin available. If previously vaccinated, a shorter course may be sufficient. There are no food restrictions after receiving the vaccine.

In the event of an attack by snakes, crabs, or monkeys, immediately visit the hospital. Antivenom and immunoglobulin treatments are available for such cases. These facilities are available at all times, and students can also use the ambulance service in case of an emergency.

“Do not panic; timely medical attention is crucial in preventing complications from animal-related injuries. The IIT Bombay hospital is equipped to handle these situations and provide the necessary care to ensure your safety.” — Dr. Arvind Meshram, CMO, IIT Bombay

Responsible Feeding Practices

Here are some general guidelines you should follow the next time you feed your friendly next-door canines:

1. Provide appropriate food²: Ensure that the food is suitable for the animal. For dogs, It is advised to avoid foods with spice or refined flour. Instead, meals rich in protein and minerals, such as home-cooked rice, meat, and vegetables, or dog food are recommended. Roti can be given with milk or water. Provide them with fresh water regularly to keep them hydrated.
2. Maintain a consistent feeding routine: Feed the animals at the same spot (refer to fig.1 for the appropriate feeding spots) and time each day, ideally during early morning or late evening hours.
3. Ensure a clean environment and use proper containers: Always clean up after feeding to create a safe and hygienic space for both animals and people. Place the food in clean containers and take them back after feeding. Also, avoid leaving leftovers that could cause littering or attract pests like rodents and insects.

Prof. Puranik also added that residents should not threaten stray dogs or treat them in an inappropriate manner. Dogs are reactive animals, and if they are threatened, they will respond in a manner that will be perceived to be aggressive by humans, leading to conflicts. Often humans threaten stray dogs for no real reason, and the cycle of conflict initiates from this.  Responsible behaviour is expected from everyone, and not just from the animal caregivers/feeders.

Looking Forward

The administration has many things planned in the upcoming months to address these issues better. The HACMC convener told us that there have been talks to set up a veterinary clinic on the campus with visiting doctors from outside. This would definitely help the animals of IITB and also the caretakers who have to go outside the campus for their treatment. There are also plans to set up a donation fund through the Dean ACR office for the cause of animal welfare, which already exists for gaushala but needs to be extended to dogs and cats. The administration is also looking into fabricating sheds for the dogs, so feeding them during monsoon becomes easy. 

Conclusion

While the Human-Animal Conflict Policy at IIT Bombay introduces much-needed structure, it also highlights the challenges of addressing the nuanced relationship between humans and stray animals on campus. The question remains: how do we balance empathy and safety in a space where both are vital? Insight urges all stakeholders—students, faculty, and administration alike—to promote a mindset of compassion, responsibility, and mutual respect as we navigate the complexities of human-animal interactions on campus. Our actions and attitudes are just as important as formal guidelines in creating a positive environment. By fostering understanding and cooperation, we can ensure a harmonious coexistence where both animals and residents are valued and cared for.

Reference

1.  The latest Delhi High Court order states that :
   “Any person having compassion for stray dogs can feed them at their private entrance or driveway of their house or any other place not shared with other residents but no one can restrict the other from feeding dogs, until and unless it is causing harm or harassment to them.”
2. Food suitable to feed stray animals
   https://www.amtmindia.org/nurturing-the-strays-what-to-feed-stray-dogs/
   https://bcspune.org/feeding-stray-dogs/
   https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/food-cats-can-and-cant-eat/

Editorial Credits: Adarsh Prajapati, Radhika Goyal, Tanvi Sharma, Yash Toshniwal
Design Credits: Karthikay Agrawal, Upasana R

5