Supreme Court directs Delhi government to take action on rising stray dog cases in Delhi-NCR. CJI Gavai said that he will consider the issue and a hearing is likely soon.
New Delhi: A new debate has erupted in the Supreme Court over the increasing cases of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. Chief Justice DY Gavai, responding to a petition filed by the Conference for Human Rights (India), stated that he will consider it. The petition challenges an order from the Delhi High Court and seeks an expedited hearing.
What demands are made in the petition?
The petition was filed in 2024 by the Conference for Human Rights (India). It seeks directives under the Animal Birth Control (Dog) Rules to expedite the sterilization and vaccination of community dogs in Delhi. The petitioner stated that the current negligent system is causing an increase in dog bite incidents, leading to a sense of fear and insecurity among the public.
CJI Gavai's Stance
During the hearing, Chief Justice DY Gavai said that a Supreme Court bench had already ruled on this issue. He referred to the August 11 order of the bench presided over by Justice JB Pardiwala, which directed the transfer of stray dogs in Delhi to dog shelters.
Reference to Previous Orders
The petitioner's lawyer cited the May 2024 order of the bench presided over by Justice JK Maheshwari. That order stated that petitions related to stray dogs should be sent to the respective High Courts. Additionally, a significant comment was also recorded – “Indiscriminate killing of dogs cannot be allowed under any circumstances. The authorities must act in accordance with the existing laws and their spirit. Showing compassion towards all living beings is our constitutional duty.”
Recent Directives of the Supreme Court
On August 11, 2024, the Supreme Court ordered the Delhi government and local bodies to capture stray dogs as soon as possible and keep them in dog shelters. This directive came when the court took suo moto cognizance of reports of rabies spreading due to dog bites in Delhi on July 28.
The Court clarified that strict action would be taken against any person or organization that obstructs the process of capturing dogs.
Order for Shelter Homes for 5,000 Stray Dogs
The bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan directed that shelter homes be built immediately for 5,000 stray dogs. Adequate staff should be present in these places so that sterilization and vaccination of dogs can be carried out smoothly. The Court also said that these dogs should not be left on the streets, colonies, and public places, so that the safety of the general public can be ensured.
