Stray Dogs Policy Revised by Supreme Court

Earlier directive for dog relocation is modified, allowing for their return to original localities after a crucial vaccination and sterilization process.

New Delhi, August 22, 2025: Stray dogs a significant modification to a prior ruling on the handling of stray dogs has been announced by the Supreme Court of India. The Court’s earlier directive, which called for the permanent relocation of all stray dogs from streets to shelters, has been put on hold. Instead, a new set of instructions has been issued, stipulating that stray dogs, once caught, must be vaccinated and sterilized before being released back into the same localities from where they were picked up.

The original order, which was issued on August 11, had sparked a nationwide protest from animal rights activists and dog lovers. It was argued that the mass relocation of animals would be inhumane, unscientific, and impractical given the lack of adequate shelter infrastructure. The Supreme Court’s decision today has addressed these concerns by reinstating the “Capture-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release” method, which is a globally recognized and humane approach to managing stray dog populations.

Also Read:Apollo Micro Systems Soars on New Orders

In its revised order, a three-judge bench, which has now expanded the scope of the case to all states and Union Territories, clarified that dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior or those infected with rabies would not be released and must be retained in shelters. This exception is seen as a measure to balance public safety with animal welfare.

Furthermore, the Court has directed that dedicated feeding areas must be created by municipal bodies in each ward, taking into account the population and concentration of stray dogs. Feeding of stray dogs on streets and in public places will no longer be permitted, and those who violate this rule may be liable for legal action. This is intended to address a long-standing issue of dog-human conflicts arising from indiscriminate feeding practices.

The move by the Supreme Court has been largely welcomed by animal welfare organizations and the general public. It is viewed as a balanced and compassionate ruling that recognizes the importance of coexistence. The decision has been celebrated as a victory for animal rights, with hopes that the new directives will lead to a more sustainable and humane resolution to the stray dog issue across the country.