The Supreme Court, while monitoring incidents of stray dog bites, has strongly disapproved of government employees feeding stray dogs outside designated areas. The court indicated that it would issue specific directions concerning government institutions and public sector undertakings that are encouraging and feeding stray animals, thereby disregarding previous court orders.
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria noted this issue during a hearing. The court’s remarks came at a time when Chief Secretaries of several states and union territories were present in court to explain non-compliance with earlier directives. The court had previously sought information on the implementation of Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules but noted a lack of response from most states, with only West Bengal, Telangana, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi filing replies.
The proceedings were initiated based on news reports highlighting public safety concerns due to a rise in dog-bite incidents. The court aims to balance public safety with the humane treatment of stray animals mandated by the ABC Rules, which emphasize sterilization and vaccination through a catch-neuter-vaccinate-release model.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that all states and union territories have now submitted their responses. The court acknowledged the ongoing dog-bite incidents and expressed concern about the disrepute it brings to the country globally. The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has been directed to be made a party to the case, and a senior advocate was appointed to compile a compliance checklist based on the states’ submissions.
The court also allowed victims of dog bites to be heard and permitted organizations and individuals, including dog lovers, to participate in the proceedings, sometimes with conditions for financial contributions towards dog welfare.
Following the submission of responses from all states and union territories, the court decided to dispense with the physical presence of Chief Secretaries but cautioned that their attendance might be required if future directions are not followed. The court had previously criticized states for their lethargy in submitting status reports, which necessitated the rare order for the personal appearance of Chief Secretaries.
The suo motu case was originally taken up on July 28 following a surge in stray dog attacks and rabies cases, particularly affecting children in Delhi and other regions.