Open letter about shocking neglect of stray cats in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai
Posting on Reddit as there is no help forthcoming even after speaking with our local corporator and Animal department of NMMC, as well as writing to ten different news publications. The corporator told me they will propose a stray cat sterilization programme in the next budget (this was a year and a half back), NMMC told me they don't deal with cats, and no journalist responded to my emails.
Dear Sir/Madam,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to bring to your attention a critical yet largely overlooked issue in Navi Mumbai—the shocking neglect of stray cats. The city’s stray cat population has surged uncontrollably due to the lack of a systematic neutering program, and the situation is becoming increasingly dire.
My mother and I -- both cat lovers residing in Navi Mumbai -- recently approached the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) with a written request to implement a cat neutering program in our ward. However, we were informed that the municipality does not handle anything related to cats and, therefore, could not accept the letter. This response highlights a significant gap in the municipality’s responsibilities, leaving citizens like us with no clear direction on whom to approach. This is particularly troubling given that the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program, under point number 19, explicitly states that cats should be sterilized just like dogs. Unfortunately, local NGOs have also refused to provide spot treatment and neutering services for cats, further exacerbating the problem.
Currently, the only solution is for individuals like us to trap the cats ourselves, and then get them neutered through private veterinary clinics. I would like to share the example of my mother, who has sterilized 33 cats in the vicinity of our residential building in the past year and a half, out of sheer concern for their wellbeing. However, this is not a practical solution for most people as it requires considerable time, money, and energy.
The challenges don’t stop there. People who take responsibility for feeding and neutering stray cats are often harassed and threatened by those who view cats as pests, failing to understand that sterilization is the only humane solution to the growing stray population. Some cat haters even go as far as threatening to illegally dump the cats in a different area, which is categorically prohibited under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Despite the law being on the side of compassion, the threats and harassment persist, creating an environment of fear and frustration for those trying to help.
Additionally, Navi Mumbai lacks basic facilities for animal care. The city does not have a burial ground or crematorium for animals, leading to deceased stray cats being discarded in the garbage. Pet owners are left with no option but to bury their beloved companions in private spaces, or travel all the way to Parel Animal Hospital for cremation carrying the lifeless body of their dear pet. This lack of infrastructure denies animals the dignified end they deserve.
We believe that this situation demands immediate attention. The following services are urgently needed and should be provided for free or at nominal charges:
- A sterilization program for cats to humanely control the stray population.
- Treatment and shelter for sick and injured cats to provide necessary care.
- A crematorium or burial ground for animals to ensure a dignified end for deceased animals.
I am reaching out to you in hopes that you can help shine a light on this issue. By covering this story, you could raise awareness and encourage action from the authorities to address this neglect. Your voice could make a real difference in improving the lives of stray cats and fostering a more compassionate community in Navi Mumbai.
I would be grateful if you could consider sharing this story with your readers. Please feel free to contact me if you need any further details or insights.
Thank you for your time and consideration.