Supreme Court on stray dogs: Delhi-NCR will be free from the terror of stray dogs; the Supreme Court took strict action

Supreme Court order on stray dogs: The Supreme Court has issued a historic order taking a tough stand on the increasing problem of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. The court has directed that all stray dogs be immediately removed from residential areas and transferred to remote areas. Also, a warning has been given of strict action against organizations or individuals who obstruct this work.

This order has come in view of the increasing incidents of deaths due to rabies and dog bites. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan heard the case, taking suo motu cognizance of a news report. The court made it clear that it would only consider the arguments of the central government and would not hear the petitions of animal lovers or other parties.

Strict Action On Stray Dogs

Justice Pardiwala said, "We are doing this not for ourselves, but for public interest. Therefore, no kind of sentiments should come in the way. Action should be taken as soon as possible." He instructed amicus curiae Gaurav Agarwal, "Dogs should be picked up from all areas and sent to far-flung areas. For now, forget the rules."

Court’s Tough Stand On Activists

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that a place had been marked in Delhi to transfer stray dogs, but the plan was halted due to a stay order by animal rights activists. On this, the bench made a strict remark and said, "All these animal activists, will they be able to bring back the victims of rabies? We have to completely free the streets from stray dogs." The court also made it clear that adoption of stray dogs will not be allowed.

Court Orders Municipal Dog Shelters

The municipal corporations of Delhi-NCR, which includes the national capital, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram, have been directed to immediately set up shelters for dogs. Sterilization and vaccination of dogs will be ensured by trained professionals at these shelters. The court ordered that CCTV cameras be installed at these sites so that there is no chance of dogs escaping. The court also directed the municipal corporations to start a dedicated helpline for complaints of dog bites. "Collect all stray dogs from all areas, whether they are sterilized or not," the court said sternly.

Children’s Safety Comes First

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court, "We cannot sacrifice our children because of some dog lovers." The court allowed municipal corporations to form a dedicated force for this work and warned that contempt proceedings will be initiated against those who obstruct it.

Concerns Over Rabies Vaccine Availability

The court termed the availability of rabies vaccines as a serious issue. The court said in the order, "The concerned authorities, especially the Delhi government, are directed to provide detailed information on a monthly basis about the availability of such vaccines, their stock, and the number of people coming for treatment."