Supreme Court Revises Stray Dog Guidelines
The Supreme Court on Friday revised its earlier directive on stray dogs, stating that canines captured under the August 11 order will now be released after sterilization and immunization, except for rabid or aggressive animals. This modification marks a significant change from the initial order, which barred authorities from re-releasing captured dogs. The updated directive also expands the issue beyond Delhi-NCR, making it a pan-India matter.
Nationwide Scope And Implementation
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria clarified that all states and Union territories are now parties to the case. Notices have been sent to concerned departments to create a uniform national policy for stray dog management. Municipal authorities in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad are required to capture stray dogs, establish shelters, and report infrastructure developments to the court.
Changes In Feeding And Shelter Rules
Under the revised Supreme Court stray dog order, municipal bodies must identify designated feeding areas within each ward. Feeding dogs in public spaces is prohibited, and violators may face legal action. Helpline numbers will also be set up for reporting violations. Authorities can initiate proceedings against any obstruction, and NGOs or individuals hindering operations may be fined ₹25,000.
Background And Controversy
The August 11 order, initially passed by Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan, mandated capturing all stray dogs and establishing shelters with at least 5,000 animal capacity within eight weeks. However, it drew objections from animal welfare groups citing potential cruelty and statutory issues. The new modifications aim to balance animal welfare with public safety.
For more updates on legal and animal welfare news, visit Kiddaan’s latest articles.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Supreme Court stray dog order about?
A1: The Supreme Court stray dog order now allows captured dogs to be released after sterilization and immunization, except rabid or aggressive ones.
Q2: Does the order apply only to Delhi?
A2: No, the Supreme Court stray dog order has been expanded pan-India and applies to all states and Union territories.
Q3: Are public feeding and interference allowed under this order?
A3: Feeding in public spaces is prohibited. Any obstruction of municipal operations may result in fines under the Supreme Court stray dog order.
Q4: What are municipal authorities required to do?
A4: Authorities must capture stray dogs, establish shelters, designate feeding areas, and report progress to the Supreme Court.
