Supreme Court Reserves Verdict on Stray Dog Removal Order – Over 3.7 Million Dog Bite Cases Reported Annually

New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): The Supreme Court has reserved its verdict on a petition seeking a stay on its August 11 order directing the removal of stray dogs from the streets of Delhi-NCR and placing them in designated shelters. During the hearing, the apex court emphasized that every petitioner must take responsibility for the issue, noting that the problem has worsened due to negligence and inaction by local authorities.

The three-judge bench, comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice NV Anjaria, heard arguments on Thursday. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Delhi government, informed the court that over 3.7 million dog bite cases are reported across India each year, describing the situation as alarming. “Children are dying. This issue needs a solution, not a debate,” he said.

On the other hand, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing an NGO that cares for stray dogs, argued that the situation is extremely serious and requires detailed discussion. He urged the court to suspend the August 11 order, which mandates immediate relocation of stray dogs to shelters and prohibits their presence in public spaces until necessary infrastructure is in place.

The Supreme Court will soon deliver its final decision, which will determine whether the August 11 order will remain in force or be temporarily halted.