Supreme Court Authorises Euthanasia of Rabid and Aggressive Stray Dogs in Landmark Order
The Supreme Court of India has allowed authorities to euthanise rabid and aggressive stray dogs under strict legal protocols. The ruling, issued by a bench of Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice NV Anjaria, upholds earlier directives on relocation of stray dogs, citing rising attacks, public safety concerns, and state non-compliance with prior orders.
The Court stated: “Authorities may, in accordance with the Animal Birth Control rules and other applicable statutory protocols, take legally permissible measures, including euthanasia in cases involving incurably ill, rabid or demonstrably dangerous/aggressive dogs to effectively cure the threat posed to human life and safety.”
The bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice NV Anjaria delivered the ruling while dismissing the petitions. The Court described the presence of stray dogs in public places as “alarming” and observed that it could not ignore repeated incidents of attacks on humans, particularly children and elderly citizens.
Referring to rising cases of dog bites, the Supreme Court declined to modify its earlier directions. It reiterated that authorities must ensure the removal of stray dogs from public spaces such as hospitals, parks, and railway stations, relocating them to shelters instead. The Court further clarified that sterilised stray dogs must not be released back into the areas from which they were captured.
The judgment also reaffirmed the prohibition on feeding stray dogs in public areas, allowing such activity only in designated feeding zones. Additionally, the Court criticised state governments for failing to comply with previous instructions issued in this regard.
By rejecting the petitions and upholding strict enforcement measures, the Supreme Court reinforced its stance on balancing animal welfare considerations with the protection of human life and public safety.

Comment List