Judge cites attacks on children among grounds for ruling but animal protection groups say decision is inhumane
India’s supreme court has ordered the immediate removal of thousands of stray dogs from the Delhi capital region, citing canine attacks and the country’s alarming rabies toll.
The sweeping move has set up a clash between public safety advocates and those who see the animals as beloved fixtures of their neighbourhoods.
The ruling on Monday, one of the strongest in the nation’s long-running struggle with its street dog population, directs civic authorities to capture all strays, sterilise and vaccinate them and relocate them to newly built shelters. The court gave authorities eight weeks to create the facilities and install CCTV monitoring to ensure no animals are released back on to the streets.
The bench stressed the need for immediate action. “Round up all stray dogs from all localities … whether sterilised or unsterilised,” Justice JB Pardiwala declared. “Children must feel safe while cycling and playing. The elderly must feel safe on their walks.”
