In a landmark decision being hailed as a beacon of compassion, the Supreme Court on Friday revised its earlier August 11 order on stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
The new ruling allows sterilised and immunised stray dogs to be returned to their original localities — a move that has earned widespread public applause, particularly from animal lovers and humane rights advocates.
The court made it clear, however, that this exemption does not apply to rabies-infected or aggressive dogs, marking a careful balance between public safety and animal welfare.
The decision comes after the August 11 order — which directed that stray dogs be relocated to shelters without returning to their habitats — triggered unprecedented backlash from citizens across the country.
Many called the earlier order “inhumane,” prompting the court to take a more empathetic stance. In response, the Chief Justice of India, BR Gava, reassigned the case to a bench led by Justice Vikram Nath, which on August 14 reserved the interim order.
The original ruling is now in abeyance, and the case will be heard again in eight weeks.
Here are the five major directives from the Supreme Court that have been widely praised:
Exception for rabies-infected dogs
The court emphasised that dogs infected or suspected to be infected with rabies, and those displaying aggression, will not be released back onto the streets.
Instead, they will be kept in separate pound shelters after sterilisation and vaccination, ensuring safety while upholding humane treatment.
A pan-India approach
Recognising the nationwide importance of this issue, the court directed that all states and union territories be included in the proceedings.
It also ordered the transfer of similar petitions from High Courts across India to the Supreme Court, consolidating the effort into a single, uniform legal framework.
No feeding stray dogs on the streets
While reaffirming safety for the public, the bench made it clear that feeding stray dogs on the streets would not be allowed.
Anyone found feeding dogs on public streets in violation of this directive could face prosecution under relevant laws.
Creation of dedicated feeding centres
The court directed municipal bodies to establish designated feeding zones for stray dogs based on their concentration in each ward.
Notice boards will clearly mark these areas, ensuring feeding takes place in a safe, organised manner — striking a balance between compassion and public convenience.
A dedicated helpline
In another progressive step, municipal authorities have been instructed to set up a dedicated helpline for citizens to report violations.
This measure ensures transparency and swift action, reinforcing the humane spirit behind the ruling.
This ruling has been met with resounding approval, with citizens and animal welfare activists praising it as “a humane and balanced solution.”
Even many who do not keep pets have applauded the order, calling it “the most sensitive and thoughtful Supreme Court verdict in recent memory.”
The decision is being celebrated as a step toward responsible coexistence between humans and animals.
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