In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court issued its decision on multiple petitions challenging its August 11 order regarding stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. The court suspended the earlier directive, allowing stray dogs to be collected but released after sterilization, according to LiveLaw. The court specified that this release applies only to stray dogs free from rabies or aggressive behavior. On August 11, the court had ordered the relocation of stray dogs in the region within eight weeks, sparking protests not only in the national capital but also across various parts of India.
A special three-judge Bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria, which had reserved its order on August 14, expanded the scope of the case to a pan-India level. The Bench issued notices to all states, union territories, and the Animal Husbandry department, making it a nationwide matter rather than limited to Delhi-NCR.
Supreme Court of India revised its August 11 order, which had prohibited the release of stray dogs after being picked up, as reported by LiveLaw. The court now mandates that stray dogs collected must be released following sterilisation and immunisation, except for those infected with rabies or showing aggressive behaviour.
According to Bar and Bench, Justice Nath said, “Those dogs with aggressive behaviour or with rabies shall be immunised.” “No public feeding of dogs allowed. Dedicated feeding spaces of stray dogs to be created. There have been instances due to such feeding instances,” he added.
The Supreme Court has ruled that people found feeding stray dogs on the streets can face legal action. It said such persons would be dealt with under the relevant legal framework.
NGOs and animal lovers will face ₹25,000 fine for obstructing public servants during the handling strays.
