August 12, 2025

Tensions hit the streets of Delhi on Monday evening as police detained a spirited group of animal rights activists, rescuers, and dog lovers. Why? They were protesting in front of the iconic India Gate against a tight Supreme Court order about stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. Here’s the big deal: The Supreme Court commanded that all stray dogs roaming Delhi and the National Capital Region be caught within eight weeks and shifted to special dog shelters — no exceptions! The court was clear: No dog will be released back onto the streets. This stern order came from a bench led by Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan. They acted on a petition they registered themselves, concerned about the sudden rise in stray dog attacks, calling the issue “alarming and disturbing.” To enforce their command, the court made a tough warning that any person or group blocking the dog round-up would face contempt proceedings. To add speed and transparency, the court wants authorities to launch a helpline for dog bite complaints. Once a complaint is made, the ‘offending’ dog should be picked up within just four hours! The bench made it clear: “Round up all stray dogs from all localities, including localities on the outskirts of Delhi, and shift them to some other place…Whether sterilised or not sterilised, the society must feel free and safe. You should not have any stray dogs roaming around.” It’s a strict call for safety over stray freedom. But not everyone agrees. During the protests, a dog caregiver shouted to ANI, “We are not being allowed to protest... We want the dogs to be protected... They have no shelter homes to accommodate so many dogs. In the end, they will throw all the dogs outside Delhi, where they will die.” These passionate voices worry about a harsh fate for the city’s furry friends. Adding spice to the debate, PETA India, a famous animal rights nonprofit, slammed the Supreme Court’s orders. Dr Mini Aravindan, senior director of veterinary affairs at PETA India, told ANI, “Displacement and jailing of dogs has never worked. Such actions will not curb the dog population, reduce rabies or prevent bites, as dogs eventually return to their territories.” According to PETA, the order is “impractical, illogical, and illegal.” So, here we stand — Delhi’s streets may soon look very different. Will this bold move protect citizens or hurt innocent animals? One thing’s sure: the stray dog debate is blazing hotter than ever!

Read More at Hindustantimes →

Tags: Delhi police, Supreme court, Stray dogs, Animal rights, Peta india, Dog shelters,