The stray dog issue in Tamil Nadu has come under sharp focus after the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court indicated it might direct the state government to adopt a comprehensive plan for managing stray dogs. This consideration came just a day after the Supreme Court ordered all stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) to be shifted to shelters.
Hearing on Multiple Petitions
The High Court was hearing a cluster of petitions concerning stray animals. One petition dealt specifically with stray cattle, another focused on street dogs, and a third highlighted the threat posed by dogs inside a temple. In the temple case, dogs had allegedly attacked devotees, injuring them and creating a risk of rabies.
Shocking Bite Statistics
During the hearing, petitioners presented alarming figures to the bench. They claimed that Tamil Nadu had recorded 3.67 lakh dog bite incidents in 2025 alone. Even more disturbing was the reported death toll — 20 people allegedly succumbed to rabies following dog bites this year. The judges responded by stating they would review the Supreme Court’s detailed guidelines before issuing a joint formal order.
Divided Public Opinion
The High Court’s potential move has divided public opinion in the state. Social media platforms reflect a mix of reactions.
Animal welfare activists have raised concerns about the lack of infrastructure, manpower, and veterinary expertise needed to control the large street dog population. One activist stressed that dogs have an equal right to live in the world. They cautioned that without proper implementation, thousands of dogs might end up neglected or starved. These activists urged the court to ensure strict enforcement of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme, which focuses on sterilisation and vaccination as sustainable solutions.
Support for Court’s Intervention
On the other side, many residents and civic activists have welcomed the court’s intervention. They emphasised that human life must take priority. With the growing number of fatal and non-fatal dog attacks, they argued that immediate and decisive action is essential.
One petitioner pointed out the lack of coordinated rabies control measures across several districts, saying, “In today’s time, no life should be lost to dog bites.” They believe new court-directed protocols could create a safer environment and reduce the risk of such attacks.
Possible Court-Directed Protocols
The High Court’s remarks hint at the possibility of a new, state-wide protocol for stray dog management in Tamil Nadu. Such a protocol could include structured shelter management, systematic sterilisation and vaccination drives, and coordinated rabies control programmes.
If implemented effectively, these measures could not only safeguard public health but also ensure the welfare of street dogs, addressing concerns from both sides of the debate.
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