Delhi High Court Calls for Legal Framework on Service Animals for Persons with Disabilities

The Delhi High Court was informed by the Centre about the absence of a legal framework for using service animals for persons with disabilities. Extensive consultations among stakeholders, including ministries, are needed to frame guidelines. The court highlighted the urgency due to recent issues involving stray animals.

The Delhi High Court has been updated by the Centre regarding the lack of a legal structure for utilizing service animals to aid persons with disabilities. It's a landmark initiative in India, evident from the Centre’s first-time discussions on the subject.

In a recent meeting chaired by the joint secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), officials emphasized collecting data from animal training associations to ensure safe public transport use. Service animal training is deemed crucial before aiding disabled individuals.

Despite assurances from the Centre's counsel about including disabled individuals in further consultations, concerns persist over the delay in framing guidelines. Concurrently, the Delhi government faces a directive to manage stray animals, reflecting the broader discussion on animal-related urban issues.