Supreme Court’s August 11 Order
On Monday, a bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan ordered that all localities in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad and nearby areas must be made free of stray dogs. The directive specified that no captured dog should be released back onto the streets and instructed authorities to establish well-staffed shelters to sterilise and immunise the animals.
The order also warned of contempt proceedings against individuals or groups obstructing the drive. The bench advised authorities to create a dedicated force if needed and ensure CCTV monitoring to track compliance. Additionally, a helpline is to be set up for dog bite complaints, with offending animals to be picked up within four hours.
Concerns Over Animal Welfare
The lawyer who approached CJI Gavai stressed that the existing law promotes coexistence and management rather than complete removal of stray dogs. “There is an earlier judgment which says compassion for all living beings must be upheld,” the lawyer noted, adding that blanket removal could harm animal rights.
Animal welfare activists have also expressed fears that the new policy could lead to overcrowded shelters and neglect, citing India’s long-standing practice of catch-neuter-vaccinate-release (CNVR) as a more sustainable approach.
Next Steps
Responding to the plea, CJI Gavai said, “I will look into this.” While no stay has been granted on the August 11 order, his remarks suggest the possibility of a judicial review or clarification.
For now, municipal bodies across Delhi-NCR are preparing to implement the directive. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Noida Authority, and other agencies are expected to begin large-scale capture operations in the coming weeks, focusing on densely populated and high-risk areas.
More details on the court’s review process are awaited. Citizens and animal rights groups are watching closely, as the outcome could set a major precedent in balancing public safety with humane animal management.
