The Supreme Court’s directive to relocate all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelters within eight weeks has sparked sharp divisions between animal rights groups and sections of the public. The order, issued during a suo motu hearing on the rising number of dog bite incidents, states that once captured, stray dogs must not be released back onto the streets.
Animal welfare organisations have strongly opposed the decision. PETA India called the move “unscientific” and warned it could cause chaos both for communities and the dogs. Citing a 2022-23 population survey estimating around 10 lakh community dogs in Delhi, PETA said that displacing them would be logistically unfeasible and ineffective in controlling the population or reducing rabies cases. The organisation argued that large-scale sterilisation, vaccination, and action against breeders would be a more effective, humane approach.
The Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO) also urged the court to reconsider. CEO Bharati Ramachandran stressed that the solution lies in scaling up sterilisation and vaccination drives, improving waste management to reduce conflict, and educating the public on co-existence. She said this strategy would safeguard both human and animal health while aligning with Indian law and humane governance principles.
Public reaction online has been mixed. Supporters of the order see it as a necessary step to address the growing threat of dog bites. Some urged animal lovers to adopt strays if they opposed the decision, while others welcomed the court’s move as long overdue. Critics of the ruling raised concerns about shelter capacity and the well-being of displaced dogs.
The debate underscores a long-standing divide in how India addresses its stray dog population — between those prioritising public safety and those advocating for community-based, animal-friendly solutions.
