Supreme Court judge Justice Vikram Nath has unexpectedly found himself in the spotlight, not for a landmark legal judgment, but for a case involving stray dogs in Delhi NCR. Known among colleagues for his lighthearted and playful remarks, Justice Nath expressed gratitude on Saturday to Chief Justice of India BR Gavai for assigning him the case, saying it has brought him recognition far beyond India.
Stray Dogs Case Sparks Widespread Attention
The case initially involved the relocation of all stray dogs in Delhi NCR to shelters, a directive later modified by the Supreme Court. The matter quickly captured public imagination and made headlines nationally and internationally. It drew mixed reactions, with some supporting the decision as an animal welfare measure, while others criticized it as harsh or impractical.
Justice Nath noted that the attention from this unusual case has been both surprising and humbling.
Recognition Beyond India
Speaking at the Regional Conference on Human-Wildlife Conflict in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Justice Nath shared how the case has elevated his profile internationally.
“So long I have been known in the legal fraternity for the little work I do, but I am thankful to the stray dogs for making me known to the entire civil society, not only in this country but world over,” he said, according to LiveLaw.
He also recalled an experience at the Law Asia POLA Summit, where delegates and lawyers from across the world asked him about the stray dogs case. “I felt very elated … well people outside India also know me. So I am thankful to them for giving me this recognition,” he added.
A Humorous Perspective on Blessings
Justice Nath’s signature sense of humor was on display as he joked about receiving messages not just from dog lovers, but even from dogs themselves. “In addition to human blessings and good wishes, I have their good wishes also,” he said, eliciting laughter from the audience.
This playful approach has helped the case resonate with people beyond legal circles, attracting media attention and discussions on animal rights, civil responsibility, and humane treatment of stray animals.
Also Read: Karti Chidambaram Raises Concerns Over Supreme Court’s Stray Dog Order
Legal Proceedings and Implications
Justice Vikram Nath was part of the three-judge bench that took over the case after an earlier bench of the Supreme Court had ordered the relocation of all stray dogs in Delhi NCR to shelters within eight weeks, instructing authorities not to release them back.
The case remains a touchpoint in debates about urban animal management, public safety, and legal oversight, highlighting how judicial decisions can unexpectedly capture public imagination and international attention.
From Legal Circles to Global Recognition
For Justice Nath, the stray dogs case illustrates how even seemingly niche issues can bring global visibility and civil engagement. Beyond the headlines, it also emphasizes the Supreme Court’s role in navigating complex human-wildlife conflicts, balancing law, public sentiment, and compassion for animals.
