Supreme Court's Stray Dog Ruling Seeks Humane Solutions Amid Safety Concerns

The Supreme Court's directives on stray dogs emphasize a balanced approach, addressing animal rights and citizen concerns. Effective coordination among municipal bodies and health departments is crucial for implementation. The court highlights humane population control via sterilization and vaccination, with accountability measures for authorities in case of non-compliance.

The Supreme Court of India has charted a 'balanced approach' with its latest directives on managing stray dogs, ensuring animal rights and citizen safety are both respected, according to a high-ranking Law Commission official.

Anju Rathi Rana, Member Secretary of the 23rd Law Commission, elaborated that the Supreme Court's decision reflects a 'renewed judicial emphasis' on effectively managing stray animals, an issue at the intersection of public health and animal welfare. The court's order mandates adherence to the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, to ensure humane control of the stray dog population through methods such as sterilization and vaccination.

The court also prescribed distinct strategies for handling strays in high-sensitivity areas like hospitals and schools. Moreover, government bodies are tasked with maintaining essential resources like anti-rabies vaccines, ensuring public health is not compromised. Recent court proceedings further suggested accountability and potential compensation for injuries arising due to state inaction.

(With inputs from agencies.)