Chief Justice’s Assurance on Stray Dog Ban

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai has committed to revisiting the Supreme Court’s recent decision to relocate stray dogs from Delhi-NCR streets to shelters. This move comes amid significant public debate and concern over rising dog bite incidents and rabies cases. The court’s order, issued on Monday, has sparked mixed reactions across society.

Public Reaction and Concerns

Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) have largely supported the decision, citing safety concerns for children and the elderly. However, animal rights activists argue that the relocation plan is impractical due to financial constraints faced by civic bodies. They emphasize that existing laws prohibit the relocation and killing of stray dogs, advocating for a more compassionate approach.

Legal Context and Previous Orders

The issue was brought before the Chief Justice following a previous court order that emphasized compassion towards all living beings as a constitutional value. This earlier directive, issued by Justice JK Maheshwari in May 2024, had referred similar petitions to High Courts.

Backlash and Appeals

The Supreme Court’s recent order has faced backlash from various quarters, including politicians, celebrities, and animal welfare organizations. Actor John Abraham has appealed to the Chief Justice for a review of the decision. Former Union minister Maneka Gandhi criticized the directive as impractical and potentially harmful to ecological balance.

PETA’s Stance on Dog Relocation

PETA India has also voiced concerns over the large-scale displacement of stray dogs. Dr Mini Aravindan, PETA India’s Senior Director of Veterinary Affairs, stated that such measures are unscientific and ineffective in addressing dog population control or reducing rabies and dog bite incidents. The organization argues that community dogs are often considered family members, and their displacement could disrupt local ecosystems without solving underlying issues.