The Supreme Court has directed municipal authorities and local bodies across the country to ensure the removal of stray dogs from sensitive public areas such as schools, hospitals, bus stands, and markets, following an alarming rise in dog bite incidents. The apex court issued this directive while hearing multiple petitions related to stray dog management and public safety.
A bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna expressed serious concern over the growing number of attacks and the lack of effective measures by civic authorities. The court emphasized that while animal welfare is important, public safety cannot be compromised. It clarified that the responsibility of handling stray animals lies with local municipal bodies and state governments, who must ensure proper sterilization, vaccination, and shelter facilities, reported Live Law.
The bench observed that “human life and safety come first,” adding that authorities must identify high-risk areas and ensure stray dogs are relocated to designated shelters. The court also asked the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to file an updated status report on the implementation of sterilization and vaccination drives under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023.
The court noted with concern that many dog bite victims are children and elderly people, calling the situation “deeply distressing.” It further stressed the need for coordinated action between civic bodies, NGOs, and the AWBI to manage the issue without cruelty but with efficiency.
In earlier hearings, the Supreme Court had balanced the need for compassion toward animals with the rights of citizens to live without fear. However, with a surge in fatal and serious dog bite cases across multiple states, the court has now adopted a firmer stance, directing immediate compliance by local authorities.
The next hearing on the matter is scheduled in four weeks, when the court will review the compliance reports from states and municipal corporations.
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