sc-reserves-verdict-on-pleas-for-modification-of-stray-dogs-order

The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its verdict on pleas seeking modification of its earlier orders regarding the management of stray dogs, after hearing arguments from state authorities, animal welfare bodies, and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

 

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria heard submissions from amicus curiae Gaurav Agarwal, who outlined measures taken by Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The court also reviewed compliance with its November 7, 2025, directive for NHAI to remove stray animals from national highways and ensure proper fencing.

 

The Bench instructed the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to process NGO applications seeking permission for animal shelters and animal birth control facilities. “Either you accept it or reject the applications but do it expeditiously,” it told the AWBI counsel, noting a surge in applications following the November order.

 

Parties were asked to submit written briefs at the earliest. The court expressed concern over states failing to expand stray dog sterilisation capacity, observing, “They are all building castles in the air.”

 

Also read: Stray dogs: SC unhappy with 'adequacy' of steps taken by states

 

The case originated suo motu on July 28, 2025, following media reports of dog bites leading to rabies, particularly among children in Delhi. The November 7 order had mandated the relocation of stray dogs from institutional areas, roads, and highways to designated shelters after sterilisation and vaccination, with strict instructions that animals should not be returned to their original locations.

 

On January 13, the apex court indicated that states could be held liable for dog-bite incidents and that dog feeders may also be held accountable. The Bench also noted the failure to implement norms for stray animals over the past five years and highlighted an “alarming rise” in dog-bite incidents near schools, hospitals, and railway stations.

 

The verdict is expected to clarify the responsibilities of states, NHAI, and AWBI while potentially modifying procedures for humane management, vaccination, sterilisation, and sheltering of stray dogs nationwide.