The Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai has indicated that he will closely examine concerns which have been raised about the Supreme Court’s directive to remove stray dogs from Delhi streets and relocate them to shelters. The assurance came in response to a lawyer’s intervention during court proceedings challenging the validity of the August 11 order.
The original bench, led by Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, had mandated that civic bodies in Delhi—including MCD and NDMC—mobilise an operation to pick up stray and community dogs from all areas, especially vulnerable neighborhoods. This process, they emphasized, must commence as a priority and without compromise, with any obstructing individuals or groups potentially facing contempt of court proceedings.
Additionally, the court directed the authorities to create shelters fully equipped for sterilisation and immunisation and to set up a helpline within a week to report dog-bite incidents. Notably, the Court stressed that no canine is to be released back onto the streets.
During the mention by a counsel, it was pointed out that an earlier Supreme Court judgment—duly participated in by Justice Karol—had underscored that indiscriminate killing or displacement of dogs contradicts the core principle of compassion toward living beings. Upon hearing this, CJI Gavai responded, “I will look into this,” acknowledging the concern while noting that the previous bench’s order remains in effect.Bar and Bench – Indian Legal news
This development emerges amid widespread debate. Proponents of the Court’s directive argue that rising dog bites, especially among children, pose serious public health risks. Meanwhile, animal rights advocates and various public figures have decried the ruling as inhumane. They argue the policy contradicts established norms—particularly the 2023 Animal Birth Control (ABC) Dog Rules—which call for sterilisation, vaccination, and the dogs being returned to their familiar habitats. Critics also warn that displacing these animals might disrupt population control mechanisms and potentially aggravate rabies transmission.IndiatimesThe Economic TimesThe Times of India+1
Chief Justice Gavai’s response signals his openness to reconsider the matter carefully, respecting both precedent and existing legal frameworks. Meanwhile, the original order continues to stand, urging urgent municipal action. Whether the CJI will convene a review will be closely watched, as it may shape future approaches to balancing public safety with humane animal welfare.