The Delhi High Court has launched a suo motu public interest litigation to monitor the adherence to the Supreme Court’s directives regarding the management of stray dogs in New Delhi. This action follows a Supreme Court mandate which required High Courts across India to initiate similar cases within their jurisdictions to ensure compliance with its rulings. The apex court has established that State Chief Secretaries are personally accountable for ensuring these directives are implemented effectively.

Court’s Instructions to Authorities

A Division Bench of Justice Dinesh Mehta and Justice Rajneesh Kumar Gupta has issued notices to the Delhi Government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and the Union Government. The Court has instructed both the Delhi Government and the MCD to submit a detailed status report on the measures taken to comply with the Supreme Court’s directions by July 31. This report is expected to be filed one day prior to the next scheduled hearing.

During the proceedings, the Court sought information regarding animal birth control initiatives, sterilisation efforts, and anti-rabies vaccination campaigns targeting stray dogs. Additionally, the Bench requested details about the availability of dog shelters and dog pounds in the capital. When the counsel for the Delhi Government stated that measures were underway, the Bench expressed concern over the rising population of stray dogs, noting that this issue is evident even within the premises of the High Court itself.

The Court raised questions about the numerous stray dogs observed near the S Block of the High Court, querying whether these dogs were trained pets or simply strays. Such observations reflect the broader concern about animal welfare and public safety amidst the ongoing stray dog population challenge.

Issues of Public Safety and Animal Welfare

The Court highlighted the need to balance the interests of animal welfare with the safety of the public. Justice Gupta alluded to the division of opinions regarding pets and stray dogs, noting ongoing tensions between dog lovers and those negatively impacted by stray dogs. “There are dog bite incidents occurring daily,” he remarked, stressing the imperative to find an equitable resolution to the problem.

The upcoming hearing on August 3 will continue deliberations on these pressing issues. This case originates from a Supreme Court ruling made on May 19, 2026, which outlined a comprehensive framework for addressing the stray dog situation across the nation. The apex court ruled that any stray dogs removed from specific public locales, including schools and hospitals, should not be returned to those locations post-sterilisation and vaccination.

Furthermore, the Supreme Court affirmed that euthanasia may be performed on rabid or exceptionally aggressive dogs, aligning this action with the law. It also emphasised the need for designated feeding zones for dogs within public areas to facilitate effective management of stray populations. The Supreme Court’s ruling mandates that each High Court monitor compliance with these directives, with the authority to initiate contempt proceedings against officials who neglect or willfully disregard these orders.

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