The Supreme Court issued strict instructions to civic bodies in Delhi-NCR to sterilise the stray dogs and permanently move them to animal shelters. The decision was taken to ensure a safe environment in the capital city.
The court also clarified that if anybody tries to intervene in the process of picking up the stray dogs, strict actions will be taken against them. There will be no compromise on the safety of the dogs.
“It is for the authorities to look into how this will be done; if they have to create a force, they shall have to do it,” the bench said, calling the step “the first and foremost exercise to ensure that the capital city is free of stray dogs.”
Concern Over Public Safety
Expressing serious concern for the safety of children, Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan said, “Infants and young children should not, at any cost, fall prey to such stray dogs. Actions should inspire confidence among people.”
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Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that a site in Delhi had been identified for relocating stray dogs. However, the plan was stalled after animal rights activists obtained a stay order.
The bench responded sharply, stating, “All these animal activists will they be able to bring back those who have fallen prey to rabies? We need to make streets absolutely free of stray dogs,” adding it would not allow stray dog adoptions.
Helpline and Medical Preparedness
The Supreme Court directed the NDMC and MCD to set up a dedicated helpline for dog bite complaints, enabling residents to immediately inform municipal authorities. It also ordered that government hospitals maintain an adequate stock of rabies vaccines, noting, “Private hospitals cannot administer rabies shots…this has to be done in government facilities.”
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Rising Attacks Prompt Suo Motu Action
Last month, the court took up the issue on its own (suo motu) after reports of increasing stray dog attacks and related fatalities. It described the situation as ‘alarming and disturbing’, particularly after the death of a six-year-old Delhi girl from rabies following a dog bite.
The bench urged the authorities to carry out the relocation drive without delay.
