The Supreme Court declined to modify its earlier directive ordering the removal of stray dogs from public spaces, rejecting petitions from animal rights groups and dog lovers.
A three-judge bench dismissed all applications in the long-running stray dog management case after months of hearings involving state governments, municipal bodies, and the Animal Welfare Board of India. The Court said High Courts across the country will now monitor the issue and initiate suo motu proceedings to ensure compliance.
The bench observed that nationwide monitoring by the Supreme Court would not be effective given the scale of the problem. It said High Courts are better positioned to supervise implementation based on local conditions.
The judges noted rising attacks on children, senior citizens, and tourists, calling the situation a humanitarian crisis. They said authorities must protect citizens and cannot ignore repeated incidents of dog bites and aggressive behaviour.
The Court cited failures in control measures and poor enforcement of earlier orders. It warned that negligence by officials would be treated seriously. Reports presented during the hearing showed alarming figures — Rajasthan recorded over 1,400 cases in Sri Ganganagar, Udaipur reported 1,700, and Tamil Nadu logged 2.4 lakh dog bite cases in 2026.
The verdict reaffirmed the November 7 order directing the removal of stray dogs from highways, hospitals, schools, and public areas. The Court said the decision balances animal welfare under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act with citizens’ right to life and safety under Article 21.
