Published Jul 07, 2025 | 10:09 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 07, 2025 | 10:09 PM
Environmental stresses may also lead to more aggressive behaviour, increasing the risk of dog bites.
In the wake of alarming stray dog attacks and rabies deaths in Kerala, the State Human Rights Commission has sought expert recommendations and directed the government to chart a comprehensive action plan.
Commission Chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas, on Monday, while considering a case registered on the basis of media reports, asked the government to clarify whether the Justice Sirijagan Committee – appointed as per Supreme Court directions to compensate victims of stray dog attacks – is still functioning.
The Additional Chief Secretary of the Local Self-Government Department has been directed to submit an explanation within a month.
Former head of the Virology Department at Vellore Christian Medical College, Dr Jacob John, recommended forming a dedicated task force comprising representatives from the Forest, Animal Husbandry, Agriculture, Health, Local Self-Government, and Education departments, with a health sector expert as its head.
He suggested that the Institute of Advanced Virology be included and a senior government officer be named secretary.
Dr John opined that with focused, coordinated efforts, Kerala could eliminate rabies deaths within five years.
The Commission requested Dr John to submit a detailed action plan within a month, outlining departmental responsibilities.
A senior officer must attend a sitting on 7 August, where Dr John will join via video conference.
