Activists Protest Stray Dog Round-Up Before Modi's Visit

Sri Lankan authorities have faced backlash for rounding up stray dogs ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, scheduled for April 5. Activists, part of the Rally for Animal Rights and Environment, have protested against the decision, arguing it undermines humane population control efforts and jeopardizes public health initiatives. Many of the strays, termed 'community canines,' are cared for by locals and have been vaccinated and neutered under a previous program. Protesters claim the removal is unnecessary and could harm tourism perceptions in Sri Lanka, a country known for its animal welfare initiatives. They have called for intervention from the Indian government, appealing to Modi's previous advocacy for animal rights. The situation highlights the tension between local governance and international visitor expectations regarding animal treatment.