The Delhi High Court has mandated the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to organise sterilisation and vaccination camps for stray dogs in at least one designated ward. This decision, taken on August 3, 2026, aims to assess the effectiveness of animal birth control measures in the capital. The initiative is part of a pilot project requiring the MCD to raise public awareness about the camps in advance.

A Division Bench, comprising Justice Dinesh Mehta and Justice Rajneesh Kumar Gupta, stressed that the camps should be thoroughly publicised through various channels, including newspapers and hoardings. The Court emphasised the need for clear communication regarding the purpose of the camps, ensuring that residents and animal welfare volunteers understand that the animals will only be taken for sterilisation and vaccination, not for removal to dog pounds.

During the proceedings, the MCD submitted an affidavit outlining its existing infrastructure for managing stray dogs, noting that the city is divided into 12 zones, each equipped with personnel for these initiatives. However, when questioned about the stray dog population, the MCD revealed that there is no official census, leading to an estimated population of approximately eight lakh dogs.

Questions Raised on Effectiveness of Current Measures

Concerns were raised by the Bench regarding the MCD’s capacity to measure the success of sterilisation efforts given the lack of reliable population data. In response, the MCD reaffirmed that sterilisation is deemed the primary approach for managing the stray dog population. It further clarified that any dogs suspected to have rabies are kept under veterinary observation for 10 to 15 days and are only returned to the streets if found to be healthy.

The Court also probed into the sterilisation practices, confirming that both male and female dogs are included in the process. During discussions, the MCD highlighted a pilot project involving microchipping stray dogs, which has reportedly been successful. The judges suggested the inclusion of local dog feeders in the sterilisation efforts, a recommendation that was welcomed by advocate Sheffy Bhatia, who identified herself as a community dog feeder.

Advocate Bhatia argued that local feeders could play a crucial role in identifying and safely capturing stray dogs for the camps, further emphasizing the effectiveness of sterilisation as a means to control the population. The Court subsequently proposed a ward-wise approach, suggesting the selection of one ward in the city’s central area and another where the stray dog population is significantly higher.

Stakeholder Consultation and Future Plans

As part of the plan, the MCD is to submit an affidavit indicating which wards have been selected for the sterilisation programme alongside the proposed detailed methodology. The Court insisted on consulting all relevant stakeholders, including parties involved in the ongoing case, when organising the camps.

The MCD assured the Court that it would consolidate the results of the sterilisation camps, noting that once the dogs are brought to these locations, they will be moved to designated centres for the procedure. The typical duration for the entire sterilisation process was mentioned as approximately five days, during which time the MCD will ensure sufficient public notification through various media.

The High Court’s concerns regarding stray dog attacks, public safety, and animal welfare were echoed throughout the proceedings. The judges reiterated the importance of finding a balanced approach that addresses both public safety and the welfare of stray animals through effective sterilisation and vaccination measures. Further hearings on this matter are scheduled for October.

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