Supreme Court orders removal of strays from public areas
New Delhi: Expressing serious concern over the growing number of dog bite incidents across the country, the Supreme Court of India on Friday directed authorities to remove stray dogs from sensitive public areas such as schools, hospitals, bus stands, and marketplaces. Calling it an issue of public safety and human dignity, the court said the alarming rise in attacks had created fear among citizens, especially children and the elderly.
A bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna observed that while compassion toward animals is important, human safety must take priority. “We cannot allow a situation where children are scared to walk to school or patients fear being attacked near hospitals. Authorities must ensure that stray dogs are removed from such public spaces immediately,” the bench said.
The court’s remarks came during the hearing of multiple petitions filed from across India, highlighting the spike in dog bite cases and the lack of effective municipal action. According to recent data placed before the court, several states have reported a sharp increase in incidents this year, with many victims suffering serious injuries or infections.
The Supreme Court said the problem needs a humane but firm approach, directing municipal bodies and local administrations to work with animal welfare boards to ensure captured dogs are safely housed in shelters and treated with care. “This is not about cruelty; it is about responsibility,” the bench noted. “We expect authorities to strike a balance between compassion for animals and the protection of human lives.”
The court also asked the Union government to frame comprehensive guidelines within four weeks to manage the stray dog population, including vaccination, sterilization, and safe relocation measures.
Citizens and public safety groups have welcomed the order, saying it reflects long-overdue attention to a growing menace that has claimed lives and caused widespread injuries.
“Let us act swiftly, humanely, and responsibly to make public spaces safe again.”