Supreme Court Pulls Up States Over Stray Dog Menace; Seeks Action Report From Chief Secretaries

The Supreme Court on Friday expressed strong displeasure over the failure of several states and Union Territories to comply with its earlier directions concerning the control of stray dog attacks.

The bench, comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice NV Anjaria, noted that the issue demanded serious administrative attention rather than judicial intervention.

During the proceedings, Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories appeared before the Court and offered unconditional apologies for not submitting timely affidavits detailing measures taken to address the stray dog menace.

The Court took note of their submissions but emphasised the need for concrete and coordinated action at the state level.

The bench ensured that the voices of dog bite victims are heard during the ongoing proceedings. It included petitions filed by the victims in the case, guaranteeing that their grievances receive proper attention and justice.

Feeding Stray Dogs on Government Premises

The Supreme Court clarified that its previous order regarding the feeding of stray dogs within government building premises will continue to remain in force. It stressed the need to balance compassion for animals with public safety and hygiene.

The bench announced that the next hearing in the matter will take place on 7 November.

Chief Secretaries will not need to appear in person during the next session but must file compliance affidavits before the deadline.

During the previous hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the states had filed affidavits in response to earlier directions.

The bench criticised the states for submitting them at the last minute, calling it a sign of administrative negligence.

The Court lamented that the judiciary is spending time on issues that state governments and municipal bodies should have resolved years ago.

The Supreme Court underlined that both state governments and civic authorities bear the responsibility for effective animal control and public safety. It noted that while Parliament had already framed necessary regulations, their implementation remained weak.

The bench asserted that future hearings would focus on ensuring accountability and compliance from all states.

Also Read: SC To Hear Stray Dogs Case Tomorrow; Chief Secretaries Of States, UTs Asked To Appear Physically