SC Orders Removal of Stray Dogs from Public Places
Apex court cites “alarming rise” in dog bite cases; directs relocation of strays to shelters within eight weeks
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 7th Nov: Amid an “alarming rise” in dog bite cases across the country, the Supreme Court on Friday directed authorities to remove stray dogs from educational institutions, hospitals, railway stations, sports complexes, and bus stands within eight weeks. The apex court ordered that the animals be relocated to designated shelters after sterilisation and not released back to the same places.
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria, which has been monitoring the issue through a suo motu proceeding, said municipal authorities must prevent strays from entering public and government premises. “Every stray dog is to be forthwith removed from such premises and relocated to a shelter after sterilisation,” the bench stated, directing civic bodies to carry out regular inspections.
The court also asked all states and union territories to file comprehensive affidavits before the next hearing, detailing corrective measures to fix lapses in implementing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) rules. “Any laxity will be viewed seriously,” the bench warned. The matter will be heard again on January 13.
The suo motu case was initiated in July after reports highlighted multiple rabies deaths caused by stray dog bites, particularly among children in Delhi and surrounding regions.
In a parallel order, the Supreme Court also directed all states, UTs, and the National Highways Authority to remove stray cattle and other animals from highways and roads. It ordered the formation of a dedicated highway patrol team and helpline numbers for reporting stray animals.
“The chief secretaries of all states will ensure strict compliance with these directives. Officers will be held accountable in case of lapses,” the court observed.
The bench underscored that animal welfare must go hand in hand with public safety, emphasising that relocated dogs and cattle must receive proper shelter and care.
