All stray dogs to be removed from Delhi-NCR within 8 weeks: Supreme Court

In a landmark move that has caught everyone’s attention, the Supreme Court of India has taken a firm stand on the growing issue of stray dogs in Delhi and NCR. The court has ordered that all stray dogs must be removed from the streets and relocated to shelters within eight weeks.

Calling the situation “grim,” the bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan came down hard on civic bodies and animal welfare groups, stating that public safety must come first. The court directed that all stray dogs be picked up, sterilized, vaccinated, and permanently housed in shelters, with no return to the streets.

Justice Pardiwala asked need of releasing stray dogs back on the streets, questioning the practice under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules that allows sterilized dogs to be released in the same area. He said that forget the rules and face the reality, highlighting the alarming rise in dog bite incidents and recent rabies-related deaths, especially among children.

The ruling includes several key directives such as, all dogs must be moved to shelters with proper facilities, CCTV monitoring, and staffing within two months. A 24x7 helpline must be set up to respond to dog bite complaints, with authorities required to act within four hours. Anyone who obstructs the removal of strays, including individuals or NGOs, will face strict legal action.Daily progress reports are to be submitted, tracking the number of dogs captured and sheltered.

The court issued the order in response to a suo motu case triggered by disturbing media reports of children dying from rabies in Delhi. The judges expressed strong concern that despite years of sterilization drives, the stray dog population, and the risks they pose, continues to grow.

While this is a strong step toward public safety, reactions are mixed. Animal rights advocates may question the ethics, particularly how the dogs are relocated, cared for, and whether long-term refuge solutions will be human.

Over the next eight weeks, authorities from Delhi’s government to municipal bodies and neighbouring civic agencies will be closely watched on how swiftly they deliver. The challenge is steep: logistical planning, securing land for shelters, staffing, veterinary arrangements, and ensuring the helpline and capture operations run smoothly.

This directive isn’t just about removing dogs; it's a test of governance, responsibility, and compassion. Can we safely protect people while ensuring humane treatment of animals? The coming days will tell.