Supreme Court modifies "harsh" order on stray dogs, mandates sterilization and release
The Supreme Court modified its earlier "harsh" August 11 order that mandated the capture and confinement of all stray dogs in Delhi and adjoining districts. The revised directive now requires civic authorities to sterilize, deworm, and immunize stray dogs before releasing them back to their original localities, aligning with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023. Dogs infected with rabies or exhibiting aggressive behavior are to be housed permanently in separate shelters. The court also directed the establishment of dedicated feeding zones and expanded the matter to a pan-India issue, emphasizing a balanced approach to public safety and animal welfare.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court modified its previous order regarding stray dogs, deeming the initial directive to capture and confine them as "too harsh."
- The new order mandates sterilization, deworming, and immunization of stray dogs before their release back to their original areas.
- Dogs with rabies or aggressive tendencies are to be permanently housed in separate shelters, not released.
- The court directed municipal authorities to establish dedicated feeding zones for strays and expanded the issue to a pan-India policy matter.
- The modification aligns with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, and emphasizes compassion for living creatures as per Article 51A(g).
Exam Facts
- The Supreme Court modified its August 11 order on stray dogs on Friday.
- The modification aligns with Rule 11(19) of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, framed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
- Article 51A(g) of the Constitution of India imposes a fundamental duty on citizens to have compassion for living creatures.
- The three-judge Bench comprised Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria.
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