India's Supreme Court has taken a step back from a prior directive that required authorities in Delhi and its neighboring regions to remove all stray dogs from the streets following intense protests from animal rights activists. The bench of three judges announced that instead of being rounded up completely, non-aggressive stray dogs would be returned to their original locations after they have undergone vaccination and sterilization.
The modified ruling stems from earlier concerns raised about the increase of dog bites in Delhi, which have been linked to rising rabies cases that contribute to a significant percentage of global rabies deaths, as reported by the World Health Organization. With an estimated stray dog population of around one million in the city and its suburbs, authorities have found the challenge of managing this issue increasingly pressing.
Initially, in August, a two-judge bench had ordered that all stray dogs be captured and placed into shelters within eight weeks, a move that sparked considerable backlash from various animal welfare organizations advocating for more humane treatment. These groups raised alarms over the potential for overcrowded shelters and advocated for measures such as vaccination and sterilization instead of mass removals.
After facing substantial public and legal opposition, the Supreme Court established a three-judge bench to review the situation. The newly issued ruling maintains the requirement for vaccination and sterilization of stray dogs. However, it emphasizes that aggressive and rabies-infected dogs should be sheltered, while calling for designated areas for feeding stray dogs, effectively banning feeding in public spaces.
Furthermore, the court has allowed animal advocates to apply for the adoption of stray dogs but with the stipulation that these animals cannot be returned to the streets. Any individuals caught feeding stray dogs in public locations could face penalties under the new ruling, which aims to mediate the balance between ensuring public safety and recognizing the rights of animals.
The Supreme Court also signaled intentions to develop a nationwide policy on managing stray dogs in light of similar cases cropping up across different states, indicating ongoing efforts to address this multifaceted issue within Indian society.
