New Delhi [India], August 23 (ANI): Following the Supreme Court’s recent order on stray dogs, residents of Delhi’s Saket area and the local Resident Welfare Association (RWA) voiced strong objections, arguing that the ruling does not adequately ensure public safety and that the situation remains unchanged.
The Supreme Court ruled that only stray dogs showing aggressive behavior or those infected with rabies should be kept in shelters. All other dogs, once vaccinated and immunized, must be released back into the area from where they were picked up. The court emphasized that dogs should not be removed from their natural environment unnecessarily.
In Saket, residents questioned how authorities would determine whether a dog is aggressive and who would make that decision. They argued that the court’s order does not address the ground reality, as incidents of stray dogs attacking children and the elderly continue to be reported from parks and streets.
Concerns were also raised about the implementation of the order to create dedicated feeding zones for dogs. Residents pointed out that while the court directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to set up feeding points, there is no mechanism to ensure compliance. They noted that previous court orders, such as the removal of encroachments from footpaths, were never enforced on the ground.
On the other hand, some people welcomed the order, calling it balanced. They argued that stray dogs are part of society and have the right to live. Forcibly sending them to shelters, they said, is inhuman and unnecessary. With proper vaccination and sterilization, they believe the issue can be managed more effectively.
“We want the government and municipal authorities to come up with a roadmap that ensures the safety of both people and animals,” an RWA member from Saket said.
Earlier on Friday, the Supreme Court modified its earlier order on the management of stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), directing that the animals be released back into the same area after sterilization and immunization. The apex court clarified that stray dogs infected with rabies or exhibiting aggressive behavior will not be released but will instead be kept in confinement.
“Stray dogs will be released back to the same area after sterilization and immunization, except those infected with rabies or exhibiting aggressive behavior,” the court stated in its revised directive. (ANI)
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