Actress Nivetha Pethuraj who has appeared in films such as Allu Arjun's Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo and Udhayanidhi's Podhuvaga Emmanasu Thangam has found herself in a spot after her remarks on stray dogs
has sparked controversy.
What Did Nivetha Pethuraj Say About Stray Dogs?
Speaking during a rally by animal welfare activists in support of street dogs in Chennai Nivetha Pethuraj said that “there is fearmongering happening in the reporting of stray dog attacks”. She went on to admit that dog bites and rabies are serious and harmful, but said "We must not let fear drive the narrative. If a dog bite occurs in an area, it’s turned into a major issue instead of focusing on solutions.” The actress urged media to promote awareness and practical solutions, like vaccination and sterilisation instead. She also said “Just because one person does wrong, we don’t call for violence, we shouldn’t apply a different standard to animals. I urge the media to spread solutions alongside news reports like promoting sterilisation drives so people are not misled."
While acknowledging the topic of rabies, she said “We shouldn’t allow fear to dictate the narrative. She also said “Awareness, compassion and practical measures — like vaccination and sterilisation — need more attention.”
Soon, netizens expressed their opinion about her take on it. One said "Putting posts and then she will fly to dubai. Dont believe her sympathy speeches ..we commoners know how we are affected by this dog issues. Dog is not domestic pet hereafter ..it's wildlife." Another called out her as privileged as she lived most of her life in Dubai. Commenting on a picture of her holding two dogs, one user said "you ain’t even holding stray dogs Trying to fool others is only fooling yourself. Stop it."Amid the controversy, Nivetha Pethuraj shared a tweet which hinted that she isn't worried about criticism "Honestly, kudos to all political parties and leaders for dealing with this mob-mentality crowd. Our country isn’t doomed because of anything else but the irresponsible civilians who are the real problem."