SC Says Right To Life Includes Freedom From Fear Of Dog Attacks

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to dilute its earlier directions on the relocation of stray dogs from sensitive public spaces, while issuing fresh directives to strengthen the implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) framework across the country.

A Bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria dismissed applications filed by animal rights groups and dog lovers seeking modifications to the apex court’s November 2025 directions.

Under the earlier order, stray dogs picked up from public places such as schools, hospitals, bus stands, and railway stations after sterilisation and vaccination cannot be released back at the same locations.

Delivering the judgment, the Bench said the right to life with dignity also includes the right to live without fear of dog attacks in public spaces. It noted that incidents of stray dog attacks had reached alarming levels and exposed serious shortcomings in the implementation of existing rules and directions.

The court warned that officials failing to comply with its directions could face contempt proceedings and disciplinary action.

The apex court directed all states and Union Territories to establish at least one fully functional ABC centre in every district with surgical facilities, trained staff and logistical support.

Authorities also expanded such centres based on population and geographical needs.

The court ordered adequate availability of anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin in government hospitals and directed stronger public health responses to dog bite cases. It also allowed legally permissible measures, including euthanasia, for rabid, incurably ill, or demonstrably aggressive dogs.

Additionally, the court directed the National Highways Authority of India to work with states and UTs to address the presence on highways and expressways.

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