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The Supreme Court of India has ordered the release of stray dogs in Delhi and surrounding areas following sterilization and vaccination, amending previous directives to establish a nationwide policy on stray animal management. This decision came after animal advocates challenged the earlier order requiring all strays to be relocated to shelters amid concerns over rising rabies cases, particularly affecting children. Critics pointed out issues with infrastructure and healthcare for the relocated animals, sparking protests.
The court clarified that, in the upcoming weeks, dogs in Delhi and nearby regions will be released after being sterilized and vaccinated, excluding those exhibiting aggressive behavior or infected with rabies. A panel of three judges announced plans to expand this case across India and develop a consistent policy for managing stray dogs nationwide.
Statistics from April indicate that roughly 430,000 dog bite incidents were reported later in January, while total cases for 2024 reached approximately 3.7 million. A survey by Mars Petcare estimates India’s stray dog population at over 52 million, with eight million housed in shelters. Reports suggest Delhi alone is home to around one million stray dogs, though this figure hasn’t been independently verified.
To prevent public feeding of stray animals, the court has also mandated the designation of specific zones where feeding is permitted.
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