Grieving Family Speaks Out: Supreme Court's Stray Dog Order Ignores Public Safety Concerns

In a move that has divided public opinion, the Supreme Court of India ruled last month that healthy stray dogs should be sterilized, vaccinated and released back to their original locations. While this decision has been welcomed by animal rights activists and dog feeders, it has cast a long shadow over the family of 6-year-old Chhavi, who tragically passed away last year after being attacked by a stray dog.

Chhavi, affectionately called Bittu by her loved ones, was bitten by a stray dog in June 2024 while walking to her aunt's house. Despite immediate medical attention and anti-rabies treatment, her condition worsened in the following weeks. Sadly, Chhavi succumbed to her injuries just days before her final vaccine dose was due.

Chhavi's aunt, Krishnadevi, expresses the family's deep anguish, stating that the Supreme Court's recent ruling has "brought happiness to many, but we are still living with grief and fear." The family feels their concerns for public safety have been overlooked, as stray dogs continue to roam their neighborhood, posing a threat to children and the elderly.

Residents of the area share the family's concerns, noting that the presence of stray dogs remains a constant worry. "The dogs are still around. Every time we step out, it reminds us of what happened," said a relative of Chhavi.

While the court emphasized the need for compassionate care for stray animals, Chhavi's family is not against animals, but rather seeks accountability and a solution that prioritizes the safety of the community. They believe the ruling fails to address the real-world challenges posed by the presence of stray dogs in their locality.