In a significant judicial intervention, the Supreme Court of India has categorized the presence of stray animals in public institutions as a “danger” to public safety. During a recent hearing, a three-judge bench emphasized that high-footfall areas like schools, hospitals, and government offices must be secured to protect citizens’ fundamental right to life.
Court’s Findings on Strays in Public Spaces
The bench observed that the unchecked presence of animals increases the risk of bites, disease transmission, and serious accidents. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the court noted that even members of the judiciary have recently suffered injuries due to stray animals. The justices criticized municipal authorities for a “systemic collapse” in oversight and failing to effectively implement existing animal welfare rules.
Legal Framework and Specific Directives
The Supreme Court clarified that while it is not ordering the “killing” of animals, strict enforcement of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, is non-negotiable. Key directives issued by the court include:
Removal from Sensitive Zones: Immediate relocation of stray dogs from educational institutions, hospitals, and railway stations to designated shelters after sterilization and vaccination.
Non-Release Policy: Unlike general street dogs, those removed from these specific “institutional areas” must not be released back into the same premises.
Nodal Officers and Fencing: Institutions must appoint nodal officers and install adequate fencing to prevent the reentry of stray animals.
Highway Safety: Road authorities must clear cattle and stray animals from highways to prevent fatal accidents.
Financial Penalties: The court ordered that any institution found in violation of these rules be liable to pay a penalty of up to ₹50,000 per incident.
Reactions from Animal Welfare Groups
Animal rights organizations have raised concerns about the “blanket removal” policy. They argue that removing dogs without a clear plan for release can lead to a “vacuum effect,” where new, unsterilized animals move into the vacated territory. Groups emphasize that long-term safety is best achieved through consistent vaccination and sterilization rather than punitive fines that may discourage the reporting of sightings.
Essential Takeaways and Judicial Mandates
Public Safety: The SC labels stray animals in institutions a direct danger to students, patients, and staff.
Targeted Removal: Educational and medical facilities must be made “dog-free” through humane relocation.
Legal Exception: The court carved out a narrow exception to standard ABC release rules for high-footfall public spaces.
Accountability: Authorities face harsh judicial action and significant fines for non-compliance with relocation orders.
