The Supreme Court has declined to alter its previous instructions regarding the handling of stray dogs in public areas. Instead, it has issued new directives for stricter enforcement of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) framework nationwide. This decision has elicited a variety of responses from animal rights activists, dog enthusiasts, advocates, and residents.
Animal rights activist Gauri Maulekhi views the order as balanced, noting that states now have flexibility in implementing measures based on local requirements. She emphasizes the importance of establishing large ABC centers in every area. A dog lover remarked that the Supreme Court effectively upheld its earlier ruling on the matter.
Former Union Minister Vijay Goel welcomed the court’s directions, highlighting his organization’s longstanding efforts to address issues related to stray dog attacks and public inconvenience. Residents of Greater Noida also expressed positive reactions to the judgment, emphasizing the necessity of establishing ABC centers to prevent conflicts arising from stray dogs.
However, advocate Nanita Sharma criticized the ruling for not adequately addressing animal cruelty concerns. She highlighted the lack of balance in the judgment, pointing out the emphasis on human issues over animal welfare. Advocate Vivek Sharma, on the other hand, praised the judgment as a positive step by the judiciary, noting its division into three main parts.
The Supreme Court’s recent decision includes a series of fresh directives to ensure the stringent implementation of the Animal Birth Control framework nationwide. The court emphasized the right to live without fear of dog attacks in public spaces, urging authorities to address the growing issue of stray dog bites effectively. It warned that officials failing to comply with the directives would face contempt of court and disciplinary action.
The apex court mandated the establishment of fully functional ABC centers in every district, equipped with surgical facilities, trained personnel, and adequate logistics support. It also directed authorities to expand the number of such centers based on population density and geographical requirements. Additionally, the court ordered the availability of anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin in all government medical facilities to handle dog bite cases effectively.
Authorities were granted permission to take legal measures, including euthanasia, in cases involving rabid, incurably ill, or demonstrably aggressive dogs to mitigate threats to human life. The Supreme Court’s comprehensive directions aim to strengthen infrastructure under the ABC Rules and enhance public health responses to dog-related issues.
