New Delhi: In a historic ruling, the Supreme Court has sanctioned euthanasia for stray dogs that are rabid, incurably sick, or pose a significant danger to humans, aiming to mitigate risks to public safety.
A panel comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria issued comprehensive guidelines to address the escalating stray dog population across the nation.
The court underscored that preventing euthanasia of stray dogs is a crucial directive for local authorities and civic officials.
It stated that euthanasia may be considered in regions where the stray dog numbers have surged to critical levels, particularly where there are frequent incidents of dog bites or aggressive behavior threatening public safety.
Such actions, along with other legal measures, should follow evaluations by veterinary professionals and comply with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960, the Animal Birth Control Rules of 2023, and other relevant legal frameworks.
This ruling emerged from a suo motu case initiated on July 28 of the previous year, prompted by media reports highlighting rabies cases from stray dog bites, especially among children in the capital.
On Tuesday, the court rejected requests to overturn its previous order regarding the relocation and sterilization of stray dogs, affirming that the right to live with dignity includes the right to move freely without the fear of dog attacks.
The court instructed states and Union Territories to adhere to its prior directive, which prohibits returning vaccinated and sterilized dogs to their original locations.
Additionally, it called for improvements to the Animal Birth Control framework, mandating the establishment of at least one fully operational ABC center in each district, equipped with necessary infrastructure, trained staff, surgical facilities, and logistical support.
The court emphasized that it cannot ignore the harsh realities faced by children, elderly individuals, and international travelers who have been victims of dog bites.
On November 7 of last year, the court acknowledged the alarming increase in dog-bite incidents in sensitive areas such as schools, hospitals, and railway stations, directing that stray dogs be relocated to designated shelters following sterilization and vaccination.
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