'I will look into this...' CJI Gavai hints at rethink on stray dog relocation order

New Delhi: Chief Justice BR Gavai has promised to reconsider the recent Supreme Court order banning stray dogs on the streets of Delhi-NCR, following widespread public concern.

The Supreme Court had on Monday directed the relocation of all stray dogs from residential areas to shelters, citing a surge in dog bite incidents and rabies cases.

During a hearing this morning, the Chief Justice was informed about an earlier court ruling that prohibited the relocation and killing of stray dogs, emphasizing adherence to existing laws and guidelines regarding stray animals.

Responding to these concerns, Chief Justice Gavai stated, “I will look into this,” offering reassurance to animal welfare advocates who oppose the relocation directive imposed by the top court.

What were the key directives from the SC order on stray dogs?

Immediate Shelter Creation: The authorities are ordered to immediately create dog shelters and report on the new infrastructure within eight weeks. These shelters must have sufficient personnel for the sterilization and long-term detention of dogs, which are not to be released back into public places. CCTV will monitor the facilities to ensure no dogs are taken out.

Swift Roundup of Dogs: The court directed authorities to begin picking up stray dogs from all localities, especially vulnerable areas, within six weeks, starting with a target of 5,000 dogs, legal portal Live Law reported. The bench stressed that this must be the "first and foremost exercise to make all localities free of stray dogs." It warned that any individual or organization hindering the roundup will face "stern action." The court emphasized that the safety of infants and young children must be the priority, stating that "no sentiments should be involved."

Strict Record Keeping: All authorities are directed to maintain a daily record of stray dogs captured and detained. The court issued a strong warning that if any dog is found to be released, it will take "stern action."

Helpline for Complaints: A helpline must be created within one week to report all cases of dog bites and rabies. Authorities must take action to pick up the dog within four hours of a complaint. Any hindrance will be viewed as contempt of court. The captured dogs must be sterilized and not released.

Vaccine Availability: The concerned authorities are directed to provide detailed information on the availability and stock of anti-rabies vaccines.

The Supreme Court bench made it clear that any hindrance by individuals or organizations to these measures will be treated as contempt of court. The authorities have been ordered to present a report at the next hearing.

How did people react to this order?

While Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) have largely welcomed the decision, citing public safety, animal rights activists have condemned the move, calling it unfeasible, unethical, and in violation of existing animal welfare laws, including the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.

The decision has triggered a flurry of reactions online, with users split between concerns for public safety and outrage over animal welfare.

One user commented:

“Dear stray dog lovers, if you’re upset with the SC decision, take a few dogs into your homes. Feeding stale chapatis doesn’t make you an animal activist.”

Another wrote:

“No one should have to risk the life of their three-year-old child because someone somewhere is compassionate about stray dogs. It’s that simple.”

Some, while identifying as dog lovers, still supported the ruling:

“I’m a dog lover myself, but this stray dog menace needs to stop. I SUPPORT SC’s DECISION.”

On the other side, critics voiced concern over what they see as a disregard for animal rights.

One user wrote:

“Humanity’s place at the top of the food chain is by sheer luck. This order shows ignorance of empathy and biology.”

Another added:

“This judgment doesn’t just break laws, it breaks compassion. We owe our strays better.”

One post went further, calling the decision a death sentence:

“The SC order is nothing but a death sentence for every stray in the capital. Each one of us must raise our voice.”

The debate has reignited long-standing questions about how to balance public safety with ethical and lawful treatment of animals.