The Supreme Court has stated in a hearing regarding the behaviour of stray dogs that their minds cannot be read. It will be mandatory to capture dogs from schools, hospitals, and public places, sterilize, vaccinate them, and send them to shelters.
New Delhi: A hearing regarding the case of stray dogs is ongoing in the Supreme Court. During the proceedings, the bench stated that it is impossible to know when dogs might bite, as their minds cannot be read. Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria are hearing the case. The Court clarified that the behaviour of stray dogs is unpredictable, therefore caution is necessary.
Previous Directive: Removal of Dogs from Institutions
On November 7th, the Court ordered the removal of stray dogs from public and institutional areas such as schools, hospitals, sports complexes, bus stands, and railway stations. The Court directed that these dogs be captured, sterilized and vaccinated, and then sent to appropriate shelters. This step is necessary not only for human safety but also for the welfare of the dogs.
Threat to Public Safety
The bench explained that stray dogs pose a risk of rabies in addition to increasing the danger of road accidents. The Court stated that in this situation, only effective measures of control and monitoring can provide a solution.
Concerns of Dog Lovers
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing on behalf of dog lovers, stated that it is physically and economically impossible to house all dogs in shelters. He suggested that the solution should be scientific.
To this, Justice Sandeep Mehta said that prevention is always better than cure. He also clarified that the Court is only ensuring that laws and regulations are followed. Strict action will be taken against any state that fails to comply with the directions.
Compliance with Laws Mandatory
The Supreme Court has ordered all states and administrative departments to comply with the directions. Failure to act by any state or local administration will be viewed as a violation of the law. This not only endangers the safety of people but also affects the health of the dogs.
