The Supreme Court declined to change its November 2025 order that mandates the removal of stray dogs from public institutions and spaces like hospitals, schools, colleges, bus stations, and railway stations. The court said it could not ignore “harsh realities.”
Defending its earlier decision, the court noted that stray dog attacks have become a significant public safety issue, especially for children and senior citizens. The judges pointed out that young children attacked, elderly individuals harmed, and even foreign tourists affected in several incidents reported nationwide.
Supreme Court planning to remove street dogs stands
The court remarked that a “survival of the fittest” principle seems to in play, leaving vulnerable groups to fend for themselves without effective action from the state. It emphasized that children and the elderly should not face these dangers alone.
The court declared that governments must protect life and public safety. It refused to change its earlier order regarding the transfer of stray dogs from public areas to shelters.
Right to citizens to move freely
Supreme Court highlighted that the right to life and liberty under Article 21 includes “the right of every citizen to move freely and access public spaces without living under the constant fear of physical attacks or life-threatening events like dog bites in public areas.”
“The state not stand by as preventable threats to human life continue to grow, especially when there laws meant to address them,” the judges added.
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