New Delhi, Aug 11, 2025:
In a significant step to tackle the growing stray dog menace, the Supreme Court has directed authorities in Delhi-NCR to remove all stray dogs from the streets within two months and house them in designated shelters. The court termed the current situation “extremely grim” and stressed that immediate action is needed to curb dog bite incidents.
A bench comprising Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan instructed civic bodies, including NCT Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad, MCD, and NMDC, to begin picking up stray dogs from all localities, especially vulnerable areas. The goal is to accommodate 5,000 stray dogs in shelters, with sufficient personnel to sterilize and vaccinate them.
The court also warned of strict action against anyone obstructing the authorities’ efforts.
> “There should not be any compromise in making all localities free of stray dogs,” the bench observed.
Key Directives from the Supreme Court:
Removal of Stray Dogs: All localities in Delhi-NCR must be cleared of stray dogs within two months.
Shelters for 5,000 Dogs: Adequate facilities with staff for sterilization and vaccination.
Strict Action: Penalties for individuals or organizations resisting the removal process.
Daily Records: Authorities must maintain a record of all captured and detained dogs.
Public Safety: Ensure infants and children are protected from dog bites and rabies.
Helpline Creation: A 24/7 helpline to report dog bite cases within a week.
The Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance after a recent Delhi dog bite case resulted in rabies. The Delhi government, under CM Rekha Gupta and Development Minister Kapil Mishra, has assured swift implementation of the order in coordination with the animal department.
This directive aims not only to control the stray dog population but also to ensure public health and safety across Delhi-NCR.
