New Delhi: The Supreme Court has taken a strict stance regarding the increasing attacks by stray dogs in the country. Refusing to make changes in its old order, the court clearly said that the decision to remove stray dogs from schools, hospitals, railway stations, bus stands and other public places will continue for the time being. The Court acknowledged that many states and local bodies have not worked at the required level to control this problem.
What was the previous order of the Supreme Court?
The Supreme Court had earlier said in its order that stray dogs should be removed from public institutions and crowded places and sent to shelter homes or dog shelters. The court had given this order in view of the increasing dog bite cases and incidents of rabies infection across the country. Later, review petitions were filed by many animal lovers and animal welfare organizations against this order.
Why did the court reject the petitions?
During the hearing, the Supreme Court said that there was no concrete and consistent action taken by the states and local bodies on the problem of stray dogs. The court acknowledged that it is not possible to solve the problem with paper plans alone. The court also said that the safety of common people and the lives of children cannot be ignored.
What was the argument of organizations?
Animal rights activists and organizations said that it is not practical to keep a large number of stray dogs in shelters. He told the court that adequate shelters and medical facilities are not available in the country. Many organizations also feared that after the order, dogs may be treated inhumanely.
What was changed in the first order?
In the year 2025, the Supreme Court had partially amended one of its old orders and said that after sterilization and vaccination, normal stray dogs can be released in the same area from where they were caught. However, dogs infected with rabies or with aggressive behavior were not allowed to be released back.
Why has this controversy increased across the country?
The issue has become a national debate following the increase in dog bite and rabies cases in many parts of the country. On one hand, people are demanding public safety, while on the other hand, animal rights organizations are advocating for a humane solution. This matter is being heard continuously in the Supreme Court and answers have also been sought from many states.
