The Supreme Court has directed that all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR be picked up within eight weeks and moved to dedicated shelters, which must be set up by the concerned authorities within the stipulated time. The court made it clear that once a stray dog is housed in a shelter, it must not be released back onto the streets.
Municipal bodies, including the Delhi government, the MCD, and the NDMC, have been ordered to coordinate efforts to clear public spaces, colonies, and outskirts of stray dogs. The SC also warned that legal action will be taken against any person or organisation obstructing the process, stressing that children’s safety must be prioritised.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, during the hearing, highlighted the growing danger of stray dog bites, saying public safety cannot be compromised in the name of animal welfare. The court said the immediate step should be to round up strays and relocate them to a far-off location.
Last month, the SC took suo motu cognisance of a media report on rising dog bite cases and related rabies incidents, particularly affecting children and the elderly.
Earlier this month, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi announced upgrades to animal birth control centres and new anti-rabies awareness drives. Key measures include:
Microchipping dogs to track sterilisation and health records.
Routine check-ups and blood tests for sheltered animals.
Improved facilities with trained staff, modern medical equipment, and proper monitoring.
Environmental activist Maneka Gandhi emphasised the need for humane sterilisation backed by adequate resources, while Standing Committee chairperson Satya Sharma said the aim is to balance animal welfare with public health through a coordinated approach involving NGOs, experts, and local communities.