The Supreme Court has issued a written order directing authorities to remove stray dogs from Delhi-NCR streets without delay. The order emphasizes that there should be no excuses or negligence in starting the process.
No Delay Due to Shelter Construction
The court stated that stray dog collection and the creation of shelters or pounds must happen simultaneously. These facilities will also be used for sterilization and vaccination. The bench warned it will not accept delays due to pending infrastructure work.
Authorities have been instructed to begin lifting stray dogs immediately. Any failure to comply could lead to strict action against responsible officials.
Contempt Warning for Obstruction
In its written order, the Supreme Court made it clear that any obstruction caused by individuals or organizations will be treated as contempt of court. Necessary action will be taken according to the law.
The court urged animal caretakers to actively participate in the initiative. They should help maintain shelters where the dogs are kept. The bench encouraged them to volunteer their time and resources to assist authorities in ensuring proper care and management.
Humane Treatment of Animals
The uploaded judgment stressed that there must be no mistreatment or cruelty towards the animals. The court expressed compassion for their lives and underlined that humane treatment is mandatory at all levels.
The Delhi government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the New Delhi Municipal Council, and civic authorities in Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad have been instructed to act quickly. Stray dog removal should start from sensitive and outer areas of the cities.
Formation of Special Teams if Needed
The court said it is up to the authorities to decide how to carry out the task. If forming a dedicated force is necessary, it should be done immediately. The removal of stray dogs must be treated as the first and most important step toward making urban and outer areas free from such animals.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court reassigned the suo motu case related to stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. The matter will now be heard by a newly constituted bench of three judges. The bench consists of Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice NV Anjaria.
This change means the judges who passed the initial order are not part of the new panel. The special bench will hear multiple petitions, including fresh challenges against the capture of stray dogs. Four cases have been listed for hearing tomorrow.
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