BENGALURU: As the security personnel at Cubbon Park gates began informing people about the proposed ban, pet parents launched an online campaign appealing to the horticulture department not to punish all for the fault of a few.
The petition 'No Pet Ban in Cubbon Park - For Dogs Sake' by BJ Memorial Trust on Change.org has already garnered the support of more than 1,500 pet lovers from across Bengaluru.
The petition features a letter addressed to Rajender Kumar Kataria, principal secretary, horticulture department, in which 'the responsible citizens of Cubbon Park' have sought a stakeholders' meeting before a formal ban is enforced. They have also suggested measures such as levying penalties for poop and non-leashing of pets by their parents.
"While we do categorically agree that a few irresponsible pet parents who choose not to leash dogs or pick up poop need to be reined in, the majority of responsible and civic-minded pet parents should not suffer for the sins of a few. We are happy to collaboratively work with you as we always have done. We completely agree that the duties and rights of dog lovers go hand in hand," the petition said.
The citizens explained they have done their best to educate pet parents about leashing dogs, picking up poop and masking at all times. "Several campaigns have been held to ensure civic behaviour... We have repeatedly asked Cubbon Park DDs for penalties so that people know it's a serious issue."
