SC Modifies Order on Stray Dogs in Delhi-NCR, Allows Release After Sterilisation

The Supreme Court on Friday modified its earlier direction prohibiting the release of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR and allowed the canines to be sterilised, vaccinated, and then released back into the same areas from where they were picked up.

A special three-judge bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath, and comprising Justices Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria, clarified that the relaxation will not apply to dogs infected with rabies, suspected cases, or those displaying aggressive behaviour.

The August 11 order of the apex court, which had barred the release of stray dogs from shelters, will remain in abeyance for now.

The bench also directed municipal authorities to create dedicated feeding spaces for stray dogs, stressing that feeding shall not be permitted on streets. Civic bodies have been asked to identify areas based on dog population and concentration within wards, with notice boards installed nearby to inform the public. People feeding dogs outside designated spaces will face legal action.

Expanding the case beyond Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court impleaded all states and Union Territories, transferring to itself pending petitions before various high courts on the issue of stray dogs.

The court’s intervention came in a suo motu case initiated on July 28 following media reports highlighting rising cases of dog bites leading to rabies, particularly among children. The matter will now be heard after eight weeks.