The Supreme Court has directed that all stray dogs in Delhi NCR be relocated from residential areas, warning that any group obstructing this move will face severe consequences. The ruling follows a surge in dog bite incidents and rabies-related deaths, which have injured children and elderly citizens.
A bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan took up the case after noting media reports about the rising danger from stray dog attacks. The court stated it will only hear submissions from the Centre, excluding petitions from dog welfare activists. Justice Pardiwala stressed that the action is for public interest and must proceed without emotional interference.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that a relocation site had been identified, but progress was halted by a stay order obtained by animal rights groups. The bench questioned whether activists could restore lives lost to rabies and emphasised making streets entirely free of stray dogs.
Civic bodies in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram have been instructed to set up dog shelters with trained handlers, sterilisation and vaccination facilities, CCTV surveillance, and strict containment. They must also launch a helpline for dog bite reports. Authorities may form special teams to execute the plan, and any release of captured dogs will invite stern action.
The court underscored that rabies vaccine availability is a priority and directed the Delhi government to publish detailed stock and treatment data monthly.