Chief Justice of India BR Gavai has assured to examine the legal and ethical implications of a recent Supreme Court directive mandating the relocation of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelters.
The assurance came after Advocate Nanita Sharma flagged a contradiction between two apex court benches—one advocating compassion and non-removal, and another ordering strict relocation with sterilisation and immunisation protocols.
The earlier ruling, led by Justices JK Maheshwari and Sanjay Karol, emphasised that “compassion for all living beings has to be there,” opposing indiscriminate removal. In contrast, the recent order by Justice JB Pardiwala’s bench directed civic bodies to capture and shelter all stray dogs, warning of contempt action against non-compliance.
Animal welfare groups have expressed alarm, citing overcrowded shelters and a lack of infrastructure. NGOs like Friendicoes-SECA and Save Animals argue that mass relocation equates to incarceration and undermines community caregiving models. Meanwhile, residents troubled by rising dog bite incidents support the move, calling for aggressive dogs to be removed for public safety.
The CJI’s intervention may pave the way for a reconciliatory approach that balances humane treatment with civic responsibility.
