Directions in suo motu case include dedicated force for immediate pick up, creation of dog shelters, creation of helpline, vaccine availability and legal consequences for those obstructing directions.
Problem of Stray Dogs
- India has a nearly 1.5 crore stray dog population (2019 livestock census)
- Dogs are the main source of Rabies (Vaccine-preventable, zoonotic, viral disease), India accounts for 36% of the world’s rabies deaths.
Legal and Judicial Provisions related to Stray Dogs in India
- Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 seek to control stray dog populations through sterilisation, and curbs spread of rabies by vaccination.
- Court Judgements: Supreme Court, in Jallikattu Case 2014, has interpreted the right to life and liberty (Article 21) as extending to animals as well.
- People for Elimination of Stray Trouble v. Animal Welfare Board of India: SC suspended the killing of all street dogs, including troublemakers.
- Constitution: Article 243W mandates municipalities to control stray dog population while Article 51A(g) places a fundamental duty on citizens “to have compassion for living creatures”
Challenges in controlling stray dog populations
- Lack of adequate infrastructure: Especially in terms of animal birth control centres and shortage of trained veterinary professionals.
- Low availability of anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) and rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) in primary care centres.
- Ethical Issues: E.g. Conflict between Animal welfare and public/human safety.
Conclusion
A balanced approach addressing issue of stray dog may involve intensive sterilization, vaccination, developing dedicated Shelters and facilities and redefining relationships with dogs (e.g. service dogs).
