- By Aditya Jha
- Tue, 19 May 2026 12:31 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Stray Dog Case: The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to review its previous order on removal of stray dogs from institutional areas such as hospitals and schools. The apex court pointed out that a large population, especially children and senior citizens, has been the victim of dog bites. It pointed out that the right to live with dignity included the right to live free from the fear of stray dog attacks. The court also directed the states and union territories to ensure strict implementation of its orders.
SC's Instructions To States/ UTs
- As per the court's orders, the authorities will be allowed to take strict legal measures, including euthanasia in case of dangerous dogs to protect human life
- The apex court has asked the states/UTs to take strict measures to enforce the Animal Welfare Board
- The state and UT administrations have been asked to ensure adequate availability of immunoglobulins and anti-rabies vaccines
- The top court further pointed out that the officials deployed for the purpose should be exempted from the police cases while performing their duties. It asserted that no FIRs should be ordinally filed against them for performing their duties
- The Supreme Court has also asked the states and UTs to set up at least one Animal Birth Control (ABC) centre in every district to control such cases
- It also asked the High Courts to register suo motu cases to monitor compliance with the directions given by the top court
- The court has also directed the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) to secure highways from the dangerous dogs
Earlier in 2025, the Supreme Court had asked the authorities to shift the stray dogs from public places like schools, hospitals, and parks to animal shelters. The order was widely opposed by the NGOs and public groups associated with animal rights.