The Supreme Court has ordered that all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR be removed from residential areas and relocated to shelters, warning that any organisation obstructing the process will face the strictest action. The directive comes in response to a surge in dog bite incidents and rabies-related deaths.
NDTV has been highlighting the stray dog menace, which has left children and elderly individuals injured, and in some cases, dead. Following the court’s order, the Delhi government assured that it will ensure prompt implementation.
A bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan took up the case after noting a news report on the increasing rabies deaths caused by stray dog attacks. The court clarified that it will only hear arguments from the Centre, rejecting petitions from dog lovers or other parties on the matter.
The Supreme Court, led by Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan, has directed civic bodies in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram to immediately remove stray dogs from all localities and shift them to shelters, citing a surge in rabies-related deaths.
Justice Pardiwala stressed, “We are not doing this for us, it is for the public interest. No sentiments should be involved. Action should be taken at the earliest.” The bench instructed that no stray dog should be released once caught, and shelters must have trained professionals for sterilisation, vaccination, and handling.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that a site for relocating dogs in Delhi was identified but stalled due to a stay order obtained by animal rights activists. The court, however, questioned if such activists could “bring back those who have fallen prey to rabies” and prohibited stray dog adoptions to prevent re-release.
Authorities have been ordered to install CCTV in shelters, start a dog-bite helpline, and ensure vaccine availability with monthly public reporting. The court also warned that anyone obstructing the operation would face contempt proceedings.
Between January and June this year, Delhi reported 49 rabies cases and over 35,000 animal bite incidents, according to the MCD. WHO data shows India accounts for 36% of the world’s 60,000 annual rabies deaths. (AGENCIES)
