A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan of the Delhi High Court has ordered municipal authorities to intensify efforts to remove stray dogs from streets across Delhi and its neighboring regions. The order mandates that no captured animal should be released back into public spaces.
The bench explicitly warned that any resistance to the roundup of stray dogs would face strict legal action. “If any individual or organisation comes in the way of picking stray dogs or rounding them up, we will proceed to take action against any such resistance,” said Justice Pardiwala. This warning targets animal rights groups, activists, and concerned citizens who have previously opposed such actions.
Authorities Must Act Swiftly and Thoroughly
The court’s order directs authorities from NCT Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad, MCD, and NMDC to begin the removal process immediately, especially in vulnerable localities.
“NCT Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad, MCD, and NMDC shall start picking up stray dogs from all localities, particularly from more vulnerable localities. It is for the authorities to look into and, if they have to create a force, do it at the earliest,” the order stated.
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The court emphasised that the exercise to clear stray dogs must be the “first and foremost” priority, with no compromises.
Balancing Public Safety and Animal Welfare
Although the High Court’s ruling puts public safety first, it also sparks discussion on how to treat stray animals humanely. Advocates for animal welfare have frequently criticized harsh removal practices, pointing to worries about the rights and well-being of stray dogs.
The difficulty, according to experts, is striking a balance between the moral treatment of animals and public safety, particularly in susceptible areas. In place of complete elimination or culling, humane capture, relocation, and adoption programs have been suggested.
The court’s firm stance reflects growing concerns about safety incidents involving stray dogs, but it also puts pressure on authorities to adopt a systematic and humane approach. Many activists warn that resistance to the order may increase unless authorities engage with communities and animal welfare groups.
Enforcement and Future Steps
The Delhi High Court’s warning to take action against any resistance signals a stricter enforcement phase ahead. Authorities may need to establish special squads to ensure effective implementation.
The order covers several key urban areas in the National Capital Region, showing the court’s intent to tackle the problem comprehensively. It remains to be seen how authorities will balance swift action with humane treatment while managing public concerns and potential backlash.
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