SC to Reassess Stray Dog Removal: New Three-Judge Bench to Hear the Case

The Supreme Court has decided to take a fresh look at its recent order directing the removal of stray dogs from Delhi-NCR streets. A newly constituted three-judge bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria will hear the matter after public criticism and legal concerns emerged over the earlier ruling. The decision could shape how Indian cities, especially Tier 2 and Tier 3 areas, handle the balance between public safety and animal welfare.

The case resurfaced after a two-judge bench had ordered all stray dogs in Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad to be shifted to shelters within eight weeks, warning of legal action against anyone obstructing the process. The move came in response to rising dog-bite cases and rabies risks, but sparked strong opposition from animal rights groups and citizens who called it unworkable and inhumane. Concerns ranged from inadequate shelter capacity to the fear of overcrowding and poor living conditions for the animals.

Chief Justice B R Gavai intervened, assigning the matter to a larger bench to ensure a more comprehensive review. The new panel is expected to consider a wider range of solutions, such as sterilisation, vaccination drives, and community-based management, instead of a blanket removal. The focus will likely be on creating a humane, practical approach that addresses safety without disregarding animal welfare.

For Tier 2 cities like Nagpur, Jaipur or Mysuru, where stray populations and limited resources create similar challenges, the Supreme Court’s eventual decision could become a guiding framework. A balanced verdict has the potential to influence municipal policies nationwide, setting standards for how to control stray populations while ensuring ethical treatment.

The hearing will determine whether the earlier removal order stands or if alternative measures will be prioritised, marking a critical moment in how India approaches the coexistence of people and street animals.