Supreme Court's Landmark Order on Stray Dogs Management

The Supreme Court revised its previous order on stray dogs in Delhi and NCR, mandating that sterilized and immunized dogs be returned to their original locations, barring those with rabies or aggressive behavior. The court called for designated feeding zones and national policy development to tackle the stray dogs' issue.

In a pivotal decision, the Supreme Court on Friday amended its August 11 directive regarding the management of stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region. The apex court ruled that stray dogs, upon being sterilized and immunized, should be returned to their original locations, except those displaying rabies symptoms or aggressive behavior, which are to be held separately.

The court further instructed that no stray dog feeding be allowed publicly, urging the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to establish dedicated spaces for this purpose. Animal lovers keen on adopting stray dogs can apply to the MCD, the court remarked, as it widened its examination of stray dog issues and engaged state and union territory animal husbandry departments for a comprehensive national policy response.

Additionally, the court's registry was tasked with securing updates from High Courts across the country concerning pending cases about stray dogs, consolidating them under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. Acclaimed as a balanced ruling by Supreme Court lawyer Nanita Sharma, the decision underscores the court's commitment to address a two-decade-long public safety concern, providing equal consideration for human welfare and animal rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)