SC to hear stray dog case on October 27; seeks uniform national policy

The Supreme Court will hear a suo motu case concerning stray dogs on October 27 , aiming to set a national framework for managing the issue. A three-judge special bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N V Anjaria will preside over the matter, which now involves all states and Union Territories , following an order in August expanding the case beyond Delhi-NCR.

The case originated from a media report highlighting stray dog bites leading to rabies, particularly among children in the capital. In August 11 directions , a two-judge bench ordered authorities in Delhi-NCR to pick up stray dogs and relocate them to shelters. Following widespread protests, the court revisited the order on August 22 , allowing dogs to be released back to their original localities after sterilisation, deworming, and vaccination , while restricting relocation for rabid or aggressive animals.

Municipal authorities across the country have been directed to submit affidavits detailing resources such as dog pounds, trained personnel, veterinarians, vehicles, and cages, ensuring compliance with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules . Authorities are expected to maintain complete statistics on dog catching, sterilisation, vaccination, and shelter facilities , reflecting the ground realities of stray dog management.

The court’s move to involve all states and Union Territories underscores the need for a uniform national approach , as stray dog issues are not limited to Delhi alone. Experts note that while sterilisation and vaccination are essential, challenges like insufficient resources, lack of trained personnel, and public resistance could affect effective implementation. The apex court is likely to frame a comprehensive policy balancing public safety with animal welfare , which could serve as a reference for all states.

Alongside the suo motu case, four other related pleas will also be heard during the October 27 session, bringing together all matters concerning stray dog management for a final decision .