Supreme Court’s Big Order on Stray Dogs: Only Sick & Aggressive to Stay in Shelters, Others Released
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Supreme Court of India has delivered a major judgment on the issue of stray dogs, modifying its earlier order dated August 11. The new ruling states that only sick and aggressive stray dogs will be kept in shelters, while all other dogs must be sterilized, vaccinated, and released back to their original locations. Dogs already shifted to shelters will also be released immediately.
The verdict was delivered by a three-judge bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath, which also issued notices to all states and union territories.
The Court emphasized that designated feeding zones must be created in every municipal ward where stray dogs can be fed. Feeding dogs in public places outside these zones will be strictly prohibited, and violators will face legal action.
The ruling also directs that NGOs operating these feeding zones will receive ₹25,000 per ward for their management. Additionally, a helpline number will be launched to register complaints about violations. Animal lovers may also apply to adopt stray dogs, but the Court clarified that once adopted, it becomes the owner’s responsibility, and the dog cannot be abandoned back on the streets. This decision aims to balance public safety, animal welfare, and the rights of dog lovers, while ensuring a systematic approach to stray dog management.