Delhi HC Directs Policy for Stray Dog Rehabilitation
In a significant move addressing the rising concern over stray dog populations in the capital, the Delhi High Court has directed the state government to frame a comprehensive policy aimed at the phased removal and rehabilitation of stray dogs from public streets. The initiative seeks to ensure both public safety and proper care for the animals.
Delhi High Court’s Order for Phased Rehabilitation
Justice Mini Pushkarna, presiding over the matter, observed that existing measures—such as sterilisation and vaccination followed by release—were insufficient in dealing with the problem, especially when the numbers are large. She stated, “Leaving the dogs on the streets, after their vaccination and sterilisation, is not the proper solution in the present matter, due to the large number of dogs involved in the present case.”
The court has thus asked the Delhi government to propose a policy for relocating stray dogs from the streets to suitable shelters. This is intended not only to curb public nuisance and rising dog bite incidents but also to enhance the welfare and living conditions of the dogs themselves.
Background: Petition Following Shelter Demolition
The court’s directive came during a hearing of a petition filed by 80-year-old Pratima Devi, widely known for taking care of more than 200 stray dogs near the PVR complex in Saket. Her makeshift shelter was reportedly demolished by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) without due process, leaving both the dogs and the caretaker in distress.
Earlier, the court had directed MCD to maintain the status quo and explore options to assist Devi and the dogs. Her petition highlighted the urgent need for structured rehabilitation mechanisms in the capital.
Government’s Response and Timeline
In response, the Delhi government informed the court that a stakeholder-based approach was being considered. The plan includes discussions with animal welfare organisations, civic bodies, and local communities to create a balanced policy that upholds legal standards and ensures humane treatment of strays.
The court has set August 6 as the next date of hearing, giving the government time to draft the policy and submit a progress report. Authorities, including the MCD and the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), have been asked to provide their inputs.
As Delhi grapples with increasing street dog populations and public complaints, the High Court’s intervention marks a crucial step toward long-term, humane solutions for managing strays in urban spaces.
