SC Orders Sterilize & Return Stray Dogs, Bans Street Feeding
On August 22, 2025, the Supreme Court revised its earlier directive on stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. The court ruled that sterilized and vaccinated stray dogs should be released back to their original locations. Only rabid or aggressive dogs will remain confined. This marked a reversal of the August 11 order, which had directed that all stray dogs be relocated to shelters within eight weeks, sparking major public protests.
Feeding Restrictions and Designated Zones
The court also banned street feeding of stray dogs in public areas. Instead, local authorities must set up dedicated feeding points in each municipal ward. These zones will be determined by the density of dog populations, and individuals feeding strays outside these designated areas may face penalties.
Move Towards National Policy
The bench extended the scope of the case to cover all states and union territories. It directed that a uniform national policy be developed to regulate stray dog management. The judges stressed coordination among municipal bodies, state governments, and animal welfare groups to ensure smooth implementation of sterilization, vaccination, and feeding regulations.
Activists Welcome Humane Approach
Animal welfare advocates welcomed the revised order, calling it more balanced and humane. BJP MP and animal rights campaigner Maneka Gandhi hailed the ruling as a “scientific judgment” and urged the court to define clearly what qualifies as “aggressive behavior” in stray dogs.
Protests Prompted Court Reconsideration
The earlier removal order had triggered widespread protests, including rallies in Delhi and other cities. Demonstrators argued that shelter facilities were inadequate and that confining dogs would only worsen aggression. The strong public reaction is believed to have influenced the court in modifying its stance.
