Noida: The Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) of Sector 105, Noida, has raised serious concerns over the growing accountability being placed on RWAs in cases involving stray dog attacks. In a press statement issued on July 16, 2026, Thursday, RWA President Divya Krishnatreya questioned whether holding RWAs financially liable, despite their limited powers and resources, is a fair or practical solution to the city’s stray dog problem.

The statement comes in the wake of recent headlines highlighting a consumer commission ruling that held an RWA liable to pay compensation in a dog bite case.

‘Limited Budget, No Legal Authority, Unlimited Accountability’

While expressing respect for the consumer commission’s decision, the RWA argued that welfare associations function with limited authority and cannot enforce laws or take action against stray animals.

According to the statement, RWAs are considered service providers because they collect maintenance charges from residents. However, they do not have legal powers to capture stray dogs, relocate them or initiate punitive action against violators.

The association questioned whether it is justified to place the burden of addressing a large civic and administrative issue solely on resident bodies that lack statutory powers.

Sector 105 RWA Highlights Financial Constraints

The RWA also highlighted the financial limitations under which it operates.

According to the association, Sector 105 has around 1,044 residential plots, but only about 400 residents are regular RWA members. Each member contributes an annual maintenance fee of ₹5,000, which is used to manage essential services including security, electricians, plumbers and maintenance of parks and gardens.

The RWA said that after meeting these basic civic requirements, it is unrealistic to expect the association to independently solve the city’s stray dog problem without additional funding or government support.

Concerns Over Pet Owners Violating Rules

The association stated that the issue extends beyond stray dogs and includes irresponsible pet owners who allegedly violate Noida Authority’s guidelines.

According to the statement, some pet owners allow their dogs to roam without leashes in residential areas and children’s parks, creating safety concerns for residents. It further claimed that when RWA representatives ask owners to follow prescribed rules, disputes often arise.

The RWA maintained that enforcement of such regulations lies with the Noida Authority and not with resident welfare associations.

RWA Alleges Illegal Dog Shelters Operating in Residential Areas

Another concern highlighted in the statement relates to the alleged operation of illegal dog shelters within residential properties.

The association claimed that some individuals keep large numbers of dogs in residential houses and later allow them to roam freely on public roads. It also alleged that feeding stray dogs on streets without proper management sometimes contributes to safety concerns for pedestrians when the animals become aggressive.

The RWA urged the Noida Authority to identify and take action against any illegal dog shelters operating in residential neighbourhoods, if found in violation of applicable rules.

Call for Stronger Civic Action

The Sector 105 RWA reiterated its commitment to resident safety but stressed that resident welfare associations cannot be expected to resolve the issue independently without legal authority, administrative support or dedicated funding.

The association urged the Noida Authority to strengthen enforcement, act against violations of pet ownership rules where applicable and address the broader issue of stray dog management through coordinated civic action.

It concluded by appealing for a comprehensive approach involving the authorities, RWAs and residents to ensure safer neighbourhoods while addressing the issue within the framework of existing laws.