Court emphasises public safety amid rising dog bite cases
Noida : In a significant ruling on the management of stray dogs, the Supreme Court upheld the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by animal welfare authorities and dismissed petitions filed by dog lovers challenging the new norms. The court observed that the growing number of dog bite incidents across the country has become a serious public health and safety concern, requiring stricter implementation of existing regulations.
During the hearing, the court noted that incidents involving stray dogs have caused severe injuries, particularly to children and women. It further remarked that shelter homes and supporting infrastructure have not expanded in proportion to the increasing stray dog population, making the issue more challenging for authorities and citizens alike.
Sterilisation and vaccination made mandatory
The Supreme Court directed that sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs must be carried out as an essential measure to control their population and prevent the spread of diseases. Municipal bodies have been assigned the responsibility of implementing these programmes effectively and ensuring compliance with animal birth control norms.
The court stressed that proper execution of sterilisation and vaccination drives is critical to addressing long-term concerns related to stray dog management and public safety.
Healthy dogs to be released back into their original areas
According to the guidelines, healthy and non-aggressive stray dogs will be released back into the same locality from where they were captured after undergoing sterilisation and vaccination procedures. The court reiterated that this approach is in line with existing animal welfare regulations and aims to balance public concerns with the welfare of animals.
Aggressive and rabid dogs to be kept in shelters
The ruling makes a distinction between healthy stray dogs and those that pose a threat to public safety. Dogs found to be infected with rabies or displaying highly aggressive behaviour will not be released back onto the streets. Instead, dedicated shelter homes will be established to house such animals, ensuring both public protection and appropriate care for the dogs.
Feeding of stray dogs restricted in public areas
One of the most notable aspects of the ruling is the restriction on feeding stray dogs in open public spaces, streets and residential lanes. The court clarified that feeding activities can only take place at designated locations identified by the authorities. The move is intended to prevent the congregation of stray dogs in public areas and reduce potential risks to pedestrians, residents and children.
Directions for Government institutions reaffirmed
The Supreme Court also reiterated its earlier directions regarding the removal of stray dogs from government institutions and other sensitive locations. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that such areas remain free from stray dog-related risks. The court’s decision is being viewed as an attempt to strike a balance between animal welfare concerns and the safety of the general public.
Need for strict implementation of ABC rles
Referring to the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2001, the court observed that the regulations have not been implemented effectively at the ground level. It emphasised that stricter enforcement is necessary to address the growing challenges associated with stray dog populations. The ruling is expected to serve as a key benchmark for future stray dog management policies across the country, providing clearer guidelines for municipal authorities, animal welfare organisations and citizens.