Supreme Court modifies stray dog shelter order, calls for sterilization and controlled feeding

In a major relief for animal welfare activists, the Supreme Court on Friday stayed an earlier order that allowed stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) to be captured and housed in shelters. The three-judge bench modified the August 11 directive, clarifying that stray dogs must instead be sterilized and returned to their original locations.

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The bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath, N.V. Anjaria, and Sandeep Mehta, emphasized that only rabid or dangerously aggressive dogs should be excluded from release. “Population control through sterilization must be prioritized,” the court observed, signaling a balance between public safety and animal rights.

The decision comes after dog lovers and NGOs challenged the earlier ruling by a two-judge bench that had directed the setting up of shelters. Petitioners argued that the order was passed without hearing their side, prompting Chief Justice B.R. Gavai to refer the matter to a larger bench.

Dogs should not be fed in public spaces

In a bid to regulate the feeding of strays, the court directed that dogs should not be fed in public spaces. Instead, designated feeding zones will be identified to prevent conflicts between residents and feeders. Legal action has also been permitted against individuals who violate this directive.
The court further ordered dog lovers and NGOs who approached the Supreme Court to deposit security amounts—₹25,000 for individuals and ₹2 lakh for organizations—with the Registrar, earmarked for dog shelter management.

Importantly, all pending stray dog cases in various High Courts have been transferred to the Supreme Court. The bench has scheduled a fresh hearing after eight weeks, when it is expected to deliberate on framing a comprehensive national policy on stray dog management.
The ruling marks a significant victory for animal rights groups, while also addressing concerns about public health and safety.