Supreme Court allows euthanasia of rabid and aggressive stray dogs to 'effectively cure threat posed to human life'

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday allowed authorities to carry out euthanasia of rabid and aggressive stray dogs, while hearing petitions related to the relocation and management of stray animals in public spaces, per a report by NDTV.

The ruling came as part of the court's decision on a batch of petitions seeking changes to its earlier directions on handling stray dogs.

Supreme Court cites public safety concerns

In its order, the court said authorities could take action under existing laws and rules where dogs pose a serious threat to people.

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“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 Supreme Court ordered, as reported by NDTV.

A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta and Justice NV Anjaria described the growing presence of stray dogs in public places as “alarming”.

The court observed that it could not ignore incidents in which stray dogs had attacked people, particularly children and elderly citizens.

Petitions seeking changes dismissed

The Supreme Court dismissed petitions filed by NGOs and animal lovers seeking modification of its earlier order on stray dog management.

The bench refused to dilute previous directions issued to authorities regarding the removal of stray dogs from public areas.

The court also criticised state governments for not properly implementing earlier instructions related to stray animal control and relocation.

Earlier restrictions remain in place

Last year, the Supreme Court directed authorities to remove stray dogs from places such as hospitals, parks and railway stations and move them to shelters.

The court had also ruled that once sterilised, the dogs should not be released back into the same public areas where they were found.

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In addition, feeding stray dogs in public spaces was prohibited except in designated feeding zones.

The latest order reinforces the court’s earlier stand on public safety and stray dog management, while allowing authorities to take stricter action in cases involving rabid or aggressive animals under the framework of the Animal Birth Control rules and other applicable laws.