Claims of free-roaming dog relocation resurface in Dhaka’s Baridhara DOHS

Allegations over the relocation of free-roaming dogs in Dhaka's Baridhara DOHS area have resurfaced months after similar claims were raised, renewing concern among residents and animal welfare activists.

Members of Animal Welfare of Baridhara DOHS (AWBD), a resident-led group, alleged that recent notices issued by the Baridhara DOHS Parishad calling for the relocation of free-roaming dogs and imposing restrictions on pet movement are unlawful and counterproductive.

Tap Here to Add The Daily Star As A Trusted Source

Samiul Hasan, a resident of Baridhara DOHS, claimed that around 13 to 15 dogs have disappeared from the area.

"There were around 13 to 15 dogs in the area, but now we cannot see any of them. On June 10, a van came and picked them up. We do not know whether they are alive or not," he said.

"When we asked the authorities about it, they denied any involvement and said the dogs had been taken by Dhaka North City Corporation," he added.

This correspondent could not reach officials of DNCC despite repeated attempts.

Another resident, Md Rafidur Rahman, said the absence of CCTV footage has made it difficult to determine who was responsible.

He also alleged that pet owners face restrictions within the residential area.

"Those who own dogs have to keep them in the garage or basement and are not allowed to bring them into their apartment buildings," he said.

"We have sent them several legal notices, but nothing has happened," Rafidur added.

Contacted by The Daily Star, Col (retd) M Abdul Hai, president of Baridhara DOHS Parishad, denied the allegations and said the Parishad had not undertaken any dog relocation programme.

"The DNCC took the dogs. Our Parishad did nothing," he said.

"I have received five legal notices and am responding to all of them according to the law. The matter may eventually go to court, but the relocation has nothing to do with us," he said.

"We are busy with our regular responsibilities. Even if the Parishad were to take any action, it would require approval from the full governing body. No such decision has been taken," he added.

Abdul Hai also alleged that the accusations were politically motivated.

"I was elected by the residents. I believe some opposition groups are making these allegations against me. Neither I nor my associates are involved," he said.

In an earlier report by The Daily Star, published on March 27, 2026, Abdul Hai had acknowledged that dogs were being removed from the area, “but the approach was different from the past”. 

“There is a general body, and decisions are made in annual meetings. These measures (removing free-roaming dogs) reflect residents’ concerns. Earlier, dogs were killed. Now they are not being killed; rather, they are being taken outside the area,” he said.

“Dogs make noise at night; people can't sleep. They make the streets dirty. Many residents are facing problems,” he added.

Dismissing calls by activists, he said, “Some want to go to the prime minister over this. I think the prime minister has more important matters to deal with.”

Rubaiya Ahmed, founder of Obhoyaronno - Bangladesh Animal Welfare Foundation, said, "The area is controlled by the army authorities, and we do not have concrete evidence. That is why no action has been taken against this alleged cruelty," she said.

"I have met the authorities several times and served legal notices, but there has been no progress," she added.

Rubaiya also warned that removing vaccinated community dogs could create a greater public health risk.

"If this continues, unvaccinated dogs from surrounding areas may move into the area, which could create a more serious problem," she said.