The Supreme Court emphasized that allegations of harassment, assault, or derogatory language against women feeding dogs are criminal offenses. The bench, led by Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria, heard from various groups regarding the issue. Senior advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani highlighted instances of women facing harassment and assaults by “anti-feeder vigilantes” across the country.
The court advised aggrieved individuals to seek recourse through local authorities like the police, magistrates, or High Courts. It clarified that individual criminal complaints should be handled through proper legal channels. The bench stressed that making derogatory remarks against women dog feeders, whether in person or on social media, is not protected under free speech if it compromises a woman’s dignity.
The Supreme Court limited the scope of the proceedings to stray dog management and public safety, excluding matters unrelated to these issues. It also declined a request to view videos depicting cruelty to dogs, stating that the focus should remain on the core concerns. The hearing is scheduled to continue on January 13.
