Supreme Court’s Directive on Stray Dog Crisis

The Supreme Court has issued a significant order addressing the escalating issue of stray dog attacks, particularly concerning the safety of children. In a recent hearing, the court emphasized the urgent need to relocate stray dogs to shelters to mitigate the threat they pose in urban areas. The court described the situation as “extremely grim,” highlighting the necessity for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations from rabies and other dangers associated with stray dogs.

Judicial Bench’s Concerns and Observations

The bench, comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan, responded to alarming reports of increased rabies fatalities linked to stray dog incidents. The justices underscored the importance of decisive action over prolonged discussions, urging authorities to prioritize public safety over sentimental considerations for stray animals. They questioned whether animal activists could compensate for the lives lost due to these attacks, stressing that protective measures must be implemented without delay.

Mandate for Civic Authorities

Civic authorities in the Delhi NCR region have been instructed to establish adequate dog shelters within eight weeks. These facilities must be equipped with sufficient personnel and infrastructure to house sterilized dogs permanently, preventing their release into public spaces. The court also mandated the installation of CCTV systems in these shelters to ensure compliance and prevent unauthorized removal of dogs.

Ensuring Public Safety and Confidence

The Supreme Court’s order aims to restore public confidence by ensuring that children and infants can move freely without fear of dog attacks. The court insisted that no emotional sentiments should hinder the implementation of these protective measures. A helpline is to be established within one week to facilitate prompt reporting of dog bites and rabies cases, with authorities required to respond within four hours of receiving a complaint.