New Delhi, April 12 -- Animal welfare activists and dog lovers of the Capital expressed their displeasure over a recent communication from the lieutenant governor's (LG's) office, asking the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to "remove or control" stray dogs at the Mehrauli Archaeological Park ahead of an event scheduled for Sunday. An official from the MCD's veterinary department, asking not to be named clarified that no dog had been picked up from the area. "No drive has been conducted since the picking up of stray dogs for the AI Summit. We've continued regular dog-catching operations whenever we get a complaint. A dog-picking team will visit the park on Sunday," the official said. The communication, dated April 10, also called for anti-mosquito fogging and fumigation in view of the event titled "Rhythm of Spring - A Cultural Evening", being organised under the aegis of the LG. It noted the programme is expected to be attended by senior union ministers, judges of the Supreme Court and high court, ministers of the Delhi government, diplomats and other dignitaries. "It is also requested that suitable measures may kindly be taken for the removal or control of stray dogs within the park premises and adjoining event area so as to ensure the safety, security," the letter read. The directive drew sharp responses. Activist Ambika Shukla asked, "Since we have recognised that sterilising and vaccinating dogs is the way to keep them healthy and harmless, what purpose does the removal of these dogs serve?" The LG's office did not respond to requests for comment....