Chief secretaries appear before SC in stray dog menace case; final directions on November 7

In one of the most significant suo motu proceedings of the year, the Supreme Court on Monday recorded the personal appearance of Chief Secretaries from almost all states and Union Territories in connection with the nationwide stray dog menace. The top court is examining what it described as an “institutional crisis,” particularly in government and public-sector offices where employees are allegedly feeding and encouraging stray dogs, leading to repeated attacks and safety concerns.

The matter was heard by a three-judge bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria. The bench stated that comprehensive directions would be issued on November 7 to address the problem, especially within institutional premises. The court observed that the issue has gone beyond public safety, extending into questions of institutional discipline and responsibility .

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that most states and UTs had filed compliance affidavits regarding the implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules , which mandate sterilisation, vaccination, and humane management of stray dogs. The bench, after taking note of their submissions, stated that the personal presence of Chief Secretaries would not be required in future hearings unless states failed to comply with court directions.

The absence of Kerala’s Chief Secretary was noted, though a Principal Secretary represented the state. The court also directed that the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) be made a party to the case to ensure a balanced approach between animal rights and human safety.

This suo motu case, initiated on July 28 , followed rising reports of dog-bite incidents and rabies deaths across India, particularly among children. On August 22, the court had ordered all states and UTs to file affidavits outlining their compliance with the ABC Rules. However, as of October 27, only West Bengal, Telangana, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi had filed responses, prompting the bench to express sharp displeasure over delays.

Emphasising that unchecked dog attacks were “tarnishing India’s image abroad,” the court expanded the case beyond Delhi-NCR, directing all states and municipal bodies to provide detailed data on sterilisation facilities, dog pounds, veterinary staff, and infrastructure available for enforcing ABC Rules.

The matter will now come up on November 7 , when the Supreme Court is expected to deliver nationwide directions on feeding and management of stray dogs within institutional and public premises.