New Delhi: Aiming to balance animal welfare with public safety, the Supreme Court of India has issued a revised directive on managing stray dogs, prohibiting public feeding on streets and in public places nationwide. The court has mandated that municipal authorities in every ward establish dedicated feeding zones to manage the stray dog population responsibly.
Ban on Public Feeding, Feeding Zones Required
The decision, handed down by a three-judge bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria, modifies an earlier ruling and addresses growing public safety concerns. The court’s order was a direct response to reports of “untoward incidents” and “difficulties for people walking on the streets” caused by unregulated feeding. The ruling makes it clear that any individual found violating the new rule will face legal action.
Addressing Public Safety Concerns
The court’s directive follows intense deliberations and arguments from various stakeholders. Senior advocates had earlier argued before the bench that there were insufficient shelter homes to house all stray dogs, and they criticized municipal bodies for their failure to effectively implement sterilization and immunization programs. The Delhi government also submitted data on dog bites and rabies-related deaths, underscoring the serious public health risks associated with the unmanaged stray dog population.
Animal Birth Control Guidelines
In its judgment, the bench clarified that stray dogs picked up for animal birth control programs should be returned to the same location after vaccination and sterilization. The only exceptions to this rule are dogs that are rabid, suspected of having rabies, or exhibiting aggressive behavior.
Nationwide Implementation
This move is seen as a significant step towards a more structured and humane approach to managing the stray animal population. The court also expanded the scope of the matter to include all States and Union Territories, ensuring a nationwide application of the new guidelines.
NGO Compensation Ordered
In a notable part of the judgment, the court directed that non-governmental organizations involved in the case be compensated with a one-time payment of ₹25,000 for their efforts in setting up facilities, while simultaneously stating they would not be allowed to make further legal submissions.
Local Authorities Must Act
The ruling emphasizes the need for local authorities to be proactive, a point on which the court had previously expressed strong disapproval. By mandating dedicated feeding zones, the Supreme Court aims to streamline the process of caring for stray animals while mitigating the risks to public life and convenience.
