Turkish Protesters Clash with Police Over Stray Dog Roundup Plan

Turkish police engaged with protesters in Ankara over a government plan to round up millions of stray dogs. Critics argue that a mass neutering campaign would be more effective. The proposal, supported by President Tayyip Erdogan's ruling AK Party, has sparked public outcry among animal lovers.

Scuffles broke out in Ankara on Friday as Turkish police confronted protesters rallying against a controversial plan to round up millions of stray dogs. The proposal, brought forward by President Tayyip Erdogan's ruling AK Party, suggests moving strays into shelters, a move that has alarmed animal advocates.

Protesters attempted to gather in central Ankara, carrying banners that read, 'You cannot round them up, you cannot jail them, you cannot kill them' and 'Take back the law'. Police pushed back the demonstrators, leading to clashes. One protester spoke through a megaphone, asking, 'What is this grudge? Do you want the dogs and cats on the street to be killed?'

According to the draft law, municipalities would be responsible for relocating strays to shelters until they are adopted. Aggressive or untreatable dogs would be euthanized. Turkey has an estimated 4 million street dogs, with 2.5 million neutered over the past two decades. The country's 322 animal shelters can accommodate 105,000 dogs, the bill reports.

(With inputs from agencies.)