KU students decry stray dog menace inside campus

Srinagar, Dec 11: The students of various Post Graduate (PG) departments at the Kashmir University (KU) have raised concern over the growing number of stray dogs inside the university premises, leaving students frightened and unsafe.

The students, mostly females, said that over the past few weeks, the presence of stray dogs is almost seen near every department and park, causing huge inconvenience and a sense of insecurity among them.

They said the dogs are seen in groups near canteens and hostel premises, making it unsafe to move around.

"We informed the authorities about it but no concrete steps were taken to get rid of this menace," the students told Greater Kashmir.

The students also attributed the presence of stray dogs to the heaps of food waste at several corners of the varsity.

A KU official, while acknowledging the presence of stray dogs inside the varsity premises, attributed it to the food market and outlets of Hazratbal, outside the varsity.

"You are well aware that dogs are fond of food and can be spotted anywhere if there is food waste available. We are also concerned about it," the KU official told Greater Kashmir.

The official said that after roaming near Hazratbal market, these dogs manage their entry inside the varsity through the main gates.

"The University gates remain open for movement of vehicles and these stray dogs manage their entry in between and later roam around the hostel area and canteens," the official told Greater Kashmir.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, Registrar KU Prof. Naseer Iqbal admitted the presence of dogs inside the premises and said that measures will be taken to keep the varsity campus free from dogs.

"We have discussed the issue with the chief proctor of the university as well. Whatever will be possible will be done to keep the stray dogs away from the university premises," he told Greater Kashmir.