IIT Hyderabad Community Dog Dispute Escalates Over Fines and Caregiver Harassment
A dispute over community dogs on the IIT Hyderabad campus has intensified, with student caregivers alleging animal starvation, severe injuries, and administrative penalties, while the institute maintains it is following animal welfare regulations to balance campus safety.
Student caregivers reported facing hostility from peers in online groups titled “IITH street dog haters,” where photographs of feeders are shared alongside complaints. Feeders alleged that campus security guards and students film individuals feeding dogs outside designated locations. These reports have resulted in official warnings, fines of ₹5,000, complaints sent to faculty, and the eviction of two students from their hostels.
Caregivers also raised alarms over canine welfare, stating that designated feeding points sit far from interior areas and do not match the dogs' natural territories. According to students, several puppies have died of starvation, and water bowls have been broken or removed across the grounds. They also reported instances of physical harm, including guards causing femur fractures to animals, and recalled a dog that died after sustaining a beating when helpers were denied entry to assist. In another case, an injured dog with a severe limp was hospitalised and given conservative treatment.
IIT Hyderabad stated that it does not support cruelty to animals and remains committed to humane, scientifically informed population management. The institute said more than 90 per cent of campus dogs have been vaccinated and sterilised with assistance from Blue Cross Hyderabad, Navodaya Vet Society, and People for Animals, Hyderabad. Regarding the death of a campus dog named Wolfy on August 26, the administration reported that nothing suspicious was found.
The administration explained that feeding spots were established 300 to 500 metres away from hostels and academic buildings to lower congregations in crowded spaces while adhering to Animal Welfare Board of India guidelines. The institute noted challenges in securing timely veterinary care and stated that some students had resisted vaccination drives. Authorities emphasised the need to protect the entire residential community, which includes children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.
Students have called for an animal welfare committee to manage ongoing issues. Meanwhile, a complaint filed by an animal welfare activist regarding the campus situation has been forwarded to the Sangareddy police.
