Supreme Court Verdict on Stray Dog Management
The Supreme Court addressed the critical issue of stray dog management, emphasizing the urgency due to increasing attacks on citizens and the poor implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) framework introduced in 2001.
Key Judgments
- The court highlighted the lack of necessary infrastructure for managing the stray dog population, leading to sporadic sterilization and vaccination efforts.
- The right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution was cited, stressing that citizens should move freely without fear of dog attacks.
- The court warned against inaction, suggesting that non-compliance with directives could lead to contempt proceedings and disciplinary actions.
Case Background
The issue surfaced prominently after a tragic incident involving a 6-year-old girl in New Delhi, highlighting the public safety threat posed by stray dogs.
Previous Court Directives
- Earlier, a directive was issued to relocate stray dogs to shelters, which led to protests from animal welfare groups.
- The Supreme Court later revised these directions, allowing sterilized dogs to be released back, while aggressive dogs could be sheltered.
Public and Animal Welfare Perspectives
- Resident groups argued for stricter control due to safety concerns near public areas.
- Animal welfare groups opposed mass dog removal, suggesting it would exacerbate the problem by allowing unsterilized dogs to fill vacated spaces.
Supreme Court's Final Directives
- Each district must establish at least one fully functional ABC center.
- States and UTs should enhance infrastructure based on local needs.
- Ensure availability of anti-rabies medicines and improve veterinary services.
- Mechanism to manage stray animals on highways and expressways, involving transport and shelter facilities.
- Legal measures, including euthanasia, permissible for rabid or dangerous dogs under strict conditions.
- High Courts to monitor the implementation of these directions through suo motu proceedings.
Constitutional Concerns
- Animal welfare groups cited Article 51A(g), urging compassion towards animals.
- Petitioners highlighted citizens' rights under Articles 19 and 21, regarding freedom of movement and safety.
Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023
- Sterilization and anti-rabies vaccination are central to controlling the stray dog population.
- Dogs must be returned to their original locality post-sterilization, respecting their territorial nature.
- Euthanasia is restricted to rabid or severely ill animals.
This verdict underscores the balance between public safety and animal welfare, urging governments to act decisively and compassionately.
