Supreme Court / Will SC's order on stray dogs be changed? CJI's comment raises hope

Supreme Court: Recently, the Supreme Court had issued an order to remove all stray dogs from the Delhi-NCR region. The court gave the administration 8 weeks to complete this task and gave clear instructions that action will be taken against those who do not follow this order. The court also ordered that a record of the dogs transferred to the shelter home be kept. Criticizing the Animal Birth Control Rules (ABC Rules) in this decision, the court said that the society has the right to feel safe.

Controversy over the order

This decision of the Supreme Court has given rise to two factions in the society. While some people are supporting this order, many animal lovers and activists are raising their voice against it. Many Bollywood celebrities, actors and actresses have demanded to overturn this order. They argue that transferring stray dogs to shelter homes can be cruel to them and will affect their natural lifestyle. On the other hand, supporters say that the increasing incidents of dog bites have created a serious situation, due to which this step is necessary.

CJI's comment

In view of the growing controversy in this matter, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) has said that this order will be reviewed. A woman lawyer raised the issue before CJI Gavai, in which he talked about rehabilitation of community dogs and preventing violence against them. The CJI replied, "I will consider it." Along with this, he also mentioned that another bench, consisting of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan, had already passed an order in this matter. On Monday, this bench had termed the incidents of dog bites as "extremely serious" and directed the immediate transfer of all stray dogs to shelter homes.

Additionally, in May 2024, a bench headed by Justice JK Maheshwari had ordered the transfer of petitions related to stray dogs to the respective High Courts. The CJI assured that he would seriously consider the matter, which has raised a new hope among animal lovers.

Way Forward

This order of the Supreme Court has sparked a huge debate on the issue of stray dog management and animal welfare not only in Delhi-NCR but across the country. While the safety of society is being given priority, on the other hand, the protection of animal rights is equally important. The CJI's review and future decisions in this case will play an important role in creating this balance.

In the meantime, it is the responsibility of the administration to ensure the rehabilitation of the dogs in a humane manner by following the court's directions. Animal lovers and social activists are keeping an eye on this case, and it will be interesting to see what the final decision of the Supreme Court is.