New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to relax its earlier directions on handling stray dogs, observing that the situation in several states and Union Territories has reached “alarming proportions” due to rising dog-bite incidents and poor implementation of animal control rules.
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria dismissed petitions seeking modification of its November 2025 order on stray dog management.
Court stands firm on relocation and sterilisation rules
The court reiterated that stray dogs picked up from sensitive public areas such as hospitals, schools and bus stands should not be released back into the same locations after sterilisation and vaccination.
It said earlier directions were issued keeping in mind repeated incidents of dog attacks, especially involving children and elderly citizens.
The bench also noted concerns that even international travellers had reportedly been affected by stray dog bites, underlining the seriousness of the issue.
‘Harm is not just statistical’
The court strongly criticised the lack of effective implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules across states and Union Territories.
It observed that infrastructure gaps and weak enforcement had allowed the situation to persist despite earlier orders.
“The harm is not just statistical, it is unfathomable,” the bench said, stressing that public safety concerns could not be ignored.
The court further remarked that the right to dignity includes the right to move freely without fear of attacks.
Strict warning to states and local bodies
The Supreme Court directed all states and Union Territories to strengthen dog-bite treatment systems and ensure proper sterilisation and vaccination drives.
It ordered that at least one fully functional Animal Birth Control centre must be established in every district.
The bench also warned that failure to comply with its directions could lead to contempt proceedings, disciplinary action, and even tortious liability against responsible authorities.
Implementation under judicial scrutiny
The court said there was little evidence that earlier directions issued in August and November had been properly implemented on the ground.
It emphasised that the issue now required immediate and serious administrative action rather than further delays or partial compliance.
The ruling signals a stricter national approach toward stray dog management, with courts now closely monitoring state-level execution of animal control policies.