The Supreme Court has expressed b displeasure regarding the increasing menace of stray dogs in Delhi NCR. The court has issued strict directives to the civic administrations and local bodies of Delhi NCR to catch stray dogs, sterilize them, and house them in appropriate shelters.
SC: The Supreme Court has taken a firm stance on the growing problem of stray dogs in Delhi NCR and the public distress caused by their attacks. The court has issued instructions to catch stray dogs, sterilize them, and keep them in safe shelters. It has also directed strict action against individuals or organizations that obstruct this process.
The objective of this action by the Supreme Court is not only to control the population of stray dogs but also to protect people from life-threatening diseases such as rabies. Let's delve into the Supreme Court's latest orders and important aspects related to this issue.
Supreme Court Issues Strict Directives
During the hearing, the Supreme Court bench comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan stated that the civic administration, municipal corporations, MCD, and NDMC of Delhi NCR must immediately initiate a campaign to catch stray dogs, especially in areas where the threat of stray dogs is high. The court clearly stated that no stray dog will be released back after being caught.
All stray dogs will be immediately placed in shelter homes, where they will undergo sterilization and medical treatment. In addition, the court has directed that all local bodies construct adequate shelters for stray dogs within eight weeks and provide information about them to the court.
Strict Action Will Be Taken Against Obstructors
The Supreme Court has also clarified that obstruction by any person or organization in the action against stray dogs will not be tolerated. Strict legal action will be taken against such individuals or entities. The court said that there should be no compromise in the action against stray dogs. The court has directed the MCD, NDMC, and concerned authorities to maintain a detailed daily record of catching stray dogs. Also, reporting of all cases of stray dog bites and rabies infection has been made mandatory.
The Supreme Court has stated that effective action should be taken within four hours of receiving a complaint related to stray dogs to ensure public safety.
Dogs Will Not Be Released Back After Sterilization
In a significant directive, the Supreme Court has stated that stray dogs should not be released back to their old locations after sterilization. This decision has been taken keeping public safety in mind. Justice Pardiwala said that whether sterilized or not, society should be free from stray dogs. No stray dog should be seen roaming in any area.
The court has also expressed concern regarding the availability of rabies vaccine. The court has directed that a complete report on the availability and distribution of the vaccine be presented so that rabies infection can be prevented in any situation.
Shelters Built for Stray Dogs
According to information from the Supreme Court, shelters have been built for approximately 5,000 stray dogs in Delhi NCR. An adequate number of trained personnel will be deployed in these shelters to ensure sterilization, medical treatment, and care of stray dogs. The Supreme Court has also directed the establishment of a helpline where people can immediately report incidents of stray dog bites. This helpline has been ordered to be operational within a week.
During the hearing, Justice Pardiwala made a strict comment, stating that it is very wrong that stray dogs are caught, sterilized, and released back in the same place. There is no logic to it. Our aim is that no stray dog should be found roaming openly in the city.
