Stray Dog Removal Order Review: The Supreme Court’s recent directive to remove all stray dogs from Delhi’s streets within eight weeks has sparked a heated debate across the nation. While civic bodies and several residents welcomed the move citing safety concerns, animal lovers and activists have taken to the streets in protest. On Wednesday, Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai assured that he would look into the matter after it was raised by a lawyer during court proceedings.
The lawyer referred to an earlier Supreme Court judgment, which emphasized compassion for all living beings and prohibited indiscriminate killing of community dogs. “This is with regard to the community dogs issue… There is an earlier judgment of this court which says there cannot be indiscriminate killing of canines,” the lawyer said. In response, CJI Gavai acknowledged the concern, noting, “But the other judge bench has already passed orders. I will look into this.”
Background of the Controversial Ruling
The controversy began on August 11, when the Supreme Court, in a suo motu case addressing the rising number of dog bite incidents in Delhi, ordered the removal of stray dogs within eight weeks. The bench highlighted the danger posed to children and senior citizens, particularly in light of reported rabies cases.
The directive mandated the Delhi government, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) to work together to implement the order.
MCD’s Phased Plan for Dog Removal
Following the order, Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh expressed gratitude to the apex court, calling it a step towards resolving a long-standing civic issue. He confirmed that the MCD would remove the stray dogs in a phased manner:
- Phase One: Aggressive or rabies-infected dogs will be relocated to existing shelter homes with assistance from NGOs.
- Phase Two: The remaining stray dog population will be removed from the streets.
Animal rights organisations, however, argue that relocation without proper rehabilitation could harm the dogs and disturb the ecological balance of urban areas.
Protests Continue Across the Capital
Since the ruling, protests have intensified. Animal welfare groups insist that the solution lies in vaccination, sterilisation, and community feeding programs—not mass removal. Many fear the decision could set a dangerous precedent for other Indian cities struggling with stray animal management.
A Case of Balancing Safety and Compassion
This is not the first time the judiciary has grappled with the stray dog issue. In previous rulings, the Supreme Court has stressed the importance of compassion towards all animals, while also acknowledging public safety concerns. The ongoing debate underscores the challenge of balancing human welfare with animal rights in a densely populated city like Delhi.
As CJI Gavai’s assurance offers a glimmer of hope to activists, the coming weeks will determine whether the apex court revisits its controversial order or stands firm on the removal directive.