In a major decision addressing the growing incidents of stray dog attacks, the Supreme Court on Monday ordered that all stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) be removed from residential localities within eight weeks and shifted to designated dog shelters.
The bench, comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan, was hearing the matter after taking note of rising cases of dog bites in the region.
5,000-Dog shelter capacity planned
According to the court’s directive, new shelters must be created to house around 5,000 stray dogs, with enough staff to sterilise and vaccinate them. Once moved, the animals should not be released back into streets, colonies, or public places.
“We are issuing these directions keeping larger public interest in mind,” the bench stated, adding that “infants, young children should not at any cost fall prey to stray dog bites leading to rabies.”
Supporters welcome the decision
Several netizens expressed relief at the court’s ruling, citing safety concerns. One X user remarked, “Why only Delhi? This should be extended to all cities. Stray dogs is a big problem across India.”
Another stated, “Infants and young children, not at any cost, should fall prey to rabies. The action should inspire confidence that they can move freely without fear of being bitten by stray dogs. No sentiments should be involved.”
A third added, “This is the most sane order I've seen recently. Stray dogs are a menace and a huge threat to small children. In a densely populated country like India, you need to have very high regulation on pets. You need to make pet owners and stray dog feeders culpable for any incident!”
Opposition calls it cruel and impractical
Animal welfare supporters voiced strong objections, questioning the feasibility and compassion of the move.
“This is ridiculous order In India we don't have shelters for homeless humans how do they think that animals will be provided proper shelters, fed and taken care of Anti Animal Rights,” one netizen wrote.
Another urged, “I hope the SC realises and urge the Hon Court to think twice. The problem will never be solved by removing them. They are an integral part of the society. Raise your voice for the voiceless.”
A further post read, “#supremecourtindia orders for removal of all #straydogs from #delhi & NCR within 8 weeks is an impractical unscientific move .. shortsighted measure for a problem that needs long term solutions where are the shelters to house thousands of dogs ?”
Another user stressed, “#SupremeCourt order on shifting #straydogs to shelters and taking action against any obstructions that animal rights' activists/ organisations may make- NEEDS SERIOUS ATTENTION. This shows the absolute lack of awareness of animal biological and psychological aspects.”
Balancing public safety and animal rights
The Supreme Court’s order has sparked a nationwide debate between advocates of public safety and defenders of animal rights. Supporters see it as a necessary step to prevent rabies and protect children, while critics warn it could lead to neglect and suffering for the animals if not implemented responsibly.
With an eight-week deadline in place, authorities face the challenge of managing both safety concerns and humane treatment for thousands of stray dogs in the capital region.
