Supreme Court Orders Stray Dogs Cattle Removal Nationwide

Amid growing concerns over the rising number of dog bite incidents and accidents caused by stray cattle, the Supreme Court has issued a landmark order directing state governments, municipal bodies, and transport authorities across India to take immediate action. The court has mandated the removal of stray dogs and cattle from public spaces, highways, and institutions, ensuring their relocation and care in designated shelters within eight weeks.

A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria issued the directive while monitoring a suo motu case related to increasing dog-bite incidents that have led to several cases of rabies, particularly among children. The court emphasized the urgent need for authorities to maintain safety and hygiene in public areas, stating that the situation had reached an "alarming level."

According to the order, stray dogs must be removed from educational institutions, hospitals, bus stands, railway stations, and sports complexes. The animals are to be taken to certified shelters for sterilisation and vaccination before being relocated. The court strictly prohibited authorities from releasing the dogs back to the same locations, emphasizing that the welfare of citizens and public safety must be prioritized.

Municipal authorities have been instructed to carry out regular inspections to ensure that no stray dog habitats exist within or around public institutions. “Every stray dog is to be forthwith removed from such premises and relocated to a shelter after sterilisation,” the court stated, adding that the process must be completed within eight weeks.

The bench also addressed the issue of stray cattle on national and state highways, directing all states and union territories to remove such animals immediately to prevent road accidents. The court ordered the formation of dedicated highway patrol teams responsible for identifying, capturing, and relocating stray cattle to shelters. It also instructed that all national highways display helpline numbers for the public to report incidents involving stray animals.

The Supreme Court made it clear that chief secretaries of all states and union territories will be held accountable for any negligence or failure to implement the directives. It further emphasized that proper care, shelter, and medical treatment must be provided to the animals once relocated.

In its statement, the bench noted that comprehensive affidavits detailing the actions taken by the authorities must be submitted before the next hearing scheduled for January 13. “Any laxity will be viewed seriously,” the order warned.

The court’s order also called for strict compliance with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, directing all states and union territories to rectify existing lapses and ensure effective monitoring of sterilisation and vaccination programs.

Earlier, in July, the Supreme Court had ruled that all stray dogs in Delhi and its surrounding regions should be moved from residential areas to shelters following multiple fatal cases of rabies. It had further warned that any individual or organization obstructing the lawful removal of stray dogs by authorities would face the “strictest action.”

The latest order expands that directive nationwide, focusing not only on stray dogs but also on cattle and other animals roaming highways and public spaces. The move aims to enhance public safety while ensuring humane treatment for animals through structured care and rehabilitation.

The issue of stray animals, particularly dogs and cattle, has been a persistent challenge in India, affecting road safety, public health, and community welfare. The Supreme Court’s order marks a significant step toward addressing this long-standing concern, combining animal welfare with the need to safeguard citizens.