Stray Dogs: Supreme Court reprimands states for not following orders
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Delhi. The Supreme Court on Thursday took a tough stand on state governments regarding the increasing number of stray dog attacks and rabies cases. The court rejected Solicitor General Tushar Mehta’s request that state chief secretaries appear virtually. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta clearly stated that all chief secretaries must appear in person on November 3rd.
Negligence in compliance
The Supreme Court stated that the states were not complying with the orders. The failure to file affidavits despite repeated instructions constituted a serious negligence against the judicial process. The bench also noted that states enact rules but turn a blind eye to implementation.
Order not accepted
On August 22, the Supreme Court ordered all states and union territories to submit affidavits detailing the steps they have taken under the Animal Birth Control Rules. Most states did not comply with this order. The court stated that this matter cannot remain confined to paperwork; lives are being lost, and governments remain silent.
No relief for Bihar
The Bihar government had appealed for its Chief Secretary to be exempted from appearing in court, citing the assembly elections. However, the court vehemently rejected the petition. The court stated, “The Election Commission will handle the elections, but there is no escape from the court’s orders. The Chief Secretary must appear.” The court recently stated that the increasing incidents of stray dog attacks are damaging India’s image abroad.
Presence of Chief Secretaries is mandatory
The Supreme Court ordered that Chief Secretaries must appear in person. This strict stance was taken because most states failed to report on their sterilization, vaccination, and deworming measures despite the August 22nd order. The Chief Secretaries of all states, except West Bengal and Telangana, were directed to appear before the court on November 3rd.
The matter was referred to a bench of Justice Vikram Nath
The matter was initially before a bench headed by Justice Yayati Chandrachud, but Chief Justice BR Gavai later referred it to a bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath. The court clarified that the move was in the interest of both humans and dogs.
Stray dog problem
The Supreme Court expressed concern over the increasing number of stray dog attacks and rabies cases. According to Press Information Bureau data, there have been over 3.7 million dog bites nationwide, with Delhi alone accounting for 25,201. The court requested complete information from states on dog pounds, veterinarians, dog-catching personnel, and specialized vehicles.
Dismissal of appeal
During the hearing, the Solicitor General requested permission for the Chief Secretaries to appear virtually, but the court flatly denied it. Justice Vikram Nath stated that no exemptions would be granted and everyone would have to appear physically.
Supreme Court message
The court clarified that states that fail to take prompt and concrete action regarding stray dog issues will be held accountable. This step is necessary not only for human safety but also for animal welfare.
