Supreme Court: Stray Dogs Can Be Euthanized Amidst Safety Fears

The Supreme Court has mandated a comprehensive approach to address the escalating issue of stray dogs across India. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria issued significant directions, emphasizing that preventing euthanasia of stray dogs is paramount.

However, the court acknowledged that euthanasia may be resorted to in areas where stray dog populations have reached critical levels and pose an ongoing threat to public safety through frequent bites or aggressive actions. Such measures must be guided by veterinary expert assessments and adhere strictly to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.

The top court's suo motu case, initiated following a media report on rabies deaths from stray dog bites, especially among children in the national capital, has led to these directives. The court dismissed pleas seeking to recall previous orders on relocation and sterilization, affirming that the right to live with dignity includes the freedom to move without fear of dog attacks.

States and Union Territories are directed to implement the court's earlier order of not returning sterilized and vaccinated dogs to their original public spots. Furthermore, a robust Animal Birth Control framework enhancement is required, ensuring each district has at least one fully equipped and staffed ABC center. The court recognized the harsh reality of dog bite incidents affecting children, travelers, and the elderly, underscoring the urgency of these actions.