Supreme Court modifies its earlier order on stray dogs, directing that canines must be released back after sterilisation and vaccination, ensuring a balance between public safety and animal welfare.
In a significant ruling, the apex court stressed that stray dogs cannot be permanently confined or relocated but must be treated with compassion under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules.
The court clarified that municipal authorities are bound to carry out sterilisation and vaccination drives across cities and towns to control the stray dog population humanely. Once sterilised and vaccinated, the dogs must be released back into their original territories, thereby reducing chances of uncontrolled breeding while safeguarding community interests.
This ruling comes in response to rising public concerns about stray dog attacks as well as petitions highlighting the importance of animal rights. The Supreme Court has thus attempted to strike a balance between addressing public safety, maintaining health standards, and ensuring ethical treatment of animals.
Animal welfare organisations have welcomed the move, stating that this decision reinforces the need for long-term, sustainable management of the stray dog population rather than short-term punitive measures. The judgment is expected to guide state governments, municipalities, and civic bodies in implementing sterilisation drives more effectively.
