In a major verdict, the Supreme Court Friday modified its August 11 order on stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), directing that they would be released in the localities they were picked from, after immunisation and sterilisation. The three-judge bench clarified that this direction would not apply to dogs infected with rabies.
This modification comes following days of public outrage over the apex court’s August 11 order on relocating stray dogs and confining them to dedicated shelters. The order had specifically directed that the canines should not be brought back to their habitat after sterilisation.
Later on August 14, the interim order in the suo motu case was reserved and subsequently re-assigned to the Justice Vikaram Nath-led bench by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai. The initial order remains in abeyance and the matter has been posted for another hearing after eight weeks.
Here are top 5 directions from the SC on the stray dogs matter
- 01
Exception: Strays dogs with rabies
The top court, in its verdict, specified that dogs infected with rabies or suspected to be infested with rabies, and those displaying aggressive behaviour, will not be released back onto the streets. “Furthermore, as far as possible, such stray dogs shall be kept in a separate pound shelter after sterilisation and immunisation,” the bench said.
- 02
Pan-India matter
The SC bench also expanded the scope of the matter and directed the impleading of all states and union territories in the matter. The court also directed that all related petitions pending before various High Courts be transferred to the SC. The initial order has been put in abeyance and another hearing has been scheduled after eight weeks.
- 03
On feeding stray dogs
The three-judge bench of Justices Vikaram Nath, Sandeep Metha, and N V Anjaria said that feeding stray dogs on the streets is not permitted and persons found doing so are liable to prosecution under relevant legal framework. “Under no condition shall feeding of the stray dogs on the streets be permitted. The persons found feeding the dogs on the streets in contravention of the above direction shall be liable to be proceeded against under the relevant legal framework,” the court added.
- 04
Dedicated feeding centres
The apex court said feeding areas shall be created and identified keeping in view the population and concentration of stray dogs in a particular municipal ward. This is meant to eliminate the practice of feeding stray dogs on streets “as this creates great difficulties for the common man walking”. Notice boards shall be placed near such designated feeding areas mentioning that stray dogs shall only be fed in such areas.
- 05
Helpline number
The bench directed municipal authorities to create a dedicated helpline number for reporting incidents of violation of the order. “On such a report being received, appropriate measures shall be taken against the individuals/NGOs concerned.”