The Supreme Court issued a verdict on Friday concerning stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. Previously, on August 11, the court had mandated the transfer of stray dogs from Delhi-NCR streets to permanent dog shelters. A review petition was submitted, and the court has now ruled that dogs should be released after they are sterilized. The court emphasized that aggressive dogs would not be released, and feeding dogs in public areas is forbidden.
The court stated that it is modifying its previous orders, and the new rulings will apply across India, not only in Delhi-NCR. All state governments are being notified, and any related cases pending in High Courts will be moved to the Supreme Court. Justice Vikram Nath presided over the three-judge bench that heard the stray dog case.
The Supreme Court decided that stray dogs should be vaccinated and then returned to their original location. This judgment is viewed favorably by dog enthusiasts. The court has mandated the release of stray dogs that were caught. The initial order from the Supreme Court had received significant opposition throughout the country.
The court has further ordered the identification of rabies-infected dogs. These dogs are to be held and not released. Dogs with rabies found roaming should be captured and taken to shelter homes.
The Supreme Court has also prohibited feeding dogs in public places. Separate feeding zones will be designated for stray dogs. The court cited incidents where such feeding practices had resulted in adverse consequences. Dog bites have led to rabies and, in some instances, death or severe injury to children. The court believes public feeding poses a risk and has warned that those who feed dogs in public will face action.
Initially, the Supreme Court had directed the administration to relocate all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelters within eight weeks. This order caused public outcry nationwide. This led to a request for the court to reconsider the decision. The Chief Justice also acknowledged this concern, and, ten days later, the court amended its ruling. Consequently, all captured stray dogs will be vaccinated and subsequently released.