Top News

New Delhi: Supreme Court of India on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the rising number of stray dog attacks across the country, stating that the issue can no longer be ignored.

Observing that the menace of stray dogs in public places has become alarming, the court refused to reconsider its earlier order directing the removal of stray dogs from streets and public spaces.

The apex court dismissed petitions filed by animal welfare organisations seeking modification or withdrawal of its November 2025 order on removing stray dogs from public places.

The bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria delivered the ruling.

The court reiterated that stray dogs should not be released back into the same public areas after being caught and sterilised. It rejected arguments made by animal rights activists that relocating dogs could make them confused and more aggressive.

Key directions issued by the Supreme Court

• All states and Union Territories must strictly implement the rules of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI).
• At least one Animal Birth Control (ABC) centre must be established in every district across the country.
• All states must ensure adequate availability of anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulins.
• No police cases should be filed against officials carrying out duties related to implementing the order, and they must be given suitable protection.

Court criticises states over lack of planning

The court criticised state governments for failing to improve infrastructure despite the growing stray dog population.

It observed that vaccination and sterilisation programmes had been carried out without proper planning and said the situation would not have become so serious if governments had acted in advance and implemented measures effectively.

What the earlier order stated

In its earlier directions, the Supreme Court had ordered removal of stray dogs from major public places such as hospitals, parks, railway stations and bus stands, and their relocation to shelters.

The court had also prohibited feeding stray dogs in public places except in designated areas. Directions were also issued to shift stray dogs from residential areas in and around Delhi to shelters, while warning of strict action against those obstructing the process.