New Delhi, May 20 (BNP): In a significant ruling on public safety and stray animal management, the Supreme Court of India refused to modify its earlier directive ordering States and Union Territories to remove stray dogs from high-footfall public spaces, including schools, hospitals, bus terminals, and railway stations.
A Bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice N. V. Anjaria observed that public authorities must prioritize citizen safety, particularly in areas frequently accessed by children, elderly persons, patients, and travellers.
The apex court clarified that stray dogs removed from institutional or crowded public spaces cannot be reintroduced into the same areas even after sterilisation and vaccination. Interpreting the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, alongside the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, the court noted that stray dogs do not have an unrestricted or absolute right to occupy all public places irrespective of their nature and usage.
In a stern observation, the court also indicated that aggressive or rabid dogs posing serious risks to human life may be subjected to euthanasia under legal provisions, while warning authorities of contempt action in case of non-compliance with its directions.
The ruling comes amid growing concerns over rising dog bite incidents across the country, with the court acknowledging the need to balance animal welfare with public safety.