The Supreme Court has issued a new order to improve safety in Delhi by tackling the problem of stray dogs. Therefore, it directed authorities to take stray dogs to shelters to protect people from rabies and other risks.
Delhi’s Development Minister, Kapil Mishra, welcomed the move. Moreover, he said the Animal Husbandry department will work with different agencies to carry it out. Posting on X, he wrote, “Supreme Court’s order shows a path to free Delhi from the fear of rabies and stray animals.”
The court acted after noting the worsening situation in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, and Ghaziabad. In particular, Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan stressed the urgency of the matter. They instructed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) to build dog shelters. In addition, they told the authorities to report progress within eight weeks. However, they also warned that anyone who blocks the collection of stray dogs will face consequences. This way, the order will move forward without delay.
The court took this step after reading a news report, which shows its concern for public safety. Meanwhile, dog bite cases continue to rise across Delhi. In 2023, the city reported 57,000 cases. In 2024, the number grew to 74,000. Consequently, urgent measures are needed.
The MCD runs 20 shelters for stray dogs. NGOs work with the MCD to sterilize and vaccinate dogs under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023. Earlier, by July 31, 2023, the MCD and NGOs sterilized and immunized 65,000 dogs. Later, in 2024, they expanded the effort and sterilized 1,31,137 dogs. In comparison, the numbers were 80,000 in 2023, 59,000 in 2022, and 91,000 in 2021. Moreover, 57 MCD wards have already reached 70% to 80% sterilization. This achievement, therefore, plays a crucial role in controlling the population.
To strengthen the plan, the MCD formed a special committee to conduct a stray dog census. This decision came after councillors complained about the sharp increase in bite cases.
Overall, the Supreme Court’s order marks a key step toward public safety. With stronger coordination, the MCD, NDMC, and other agencies can control the stray dog population more effectively. As a result, Delhi can reduce rabies risks and create a safer environment for its people.
