In a significant development concerning the escalating stray dog situation, the Supreme Court has issued a strong rebuke to states that have failed to provide crucial action-taken reports. Justices Vikram Nath and NV Anjaria made it clear that the lack of compliance with directives on animal birth control is not only a local issue but is also damaging India’s international standing.
The court has mandated the presence of Chief Secretaries from all states, except West Bengal, Delhi, and Telangana, at the next hearing on November 3rd. This order underscores the seriousness with which the judiciary views the non-submission of affidavits detailing the implementation of the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023. The bench pointed out that information about these persistent problems is readily available through public channels like newspapers and social media, implying a lack of diligence on the part of state officials.
“Continuous incidents are happening and the image of the country is being shown as down in the eyes of foreign nations,” Justice Vikram Nath stated, highlighting the broader implications of the crisis. The court also indicated its awareness of human victims, asking, “What about the cruelty towards humans?” The bench further advised against an unwieldy number of interventions, encouraging constructive proposals from resident welfare associations and other groups.
This judicial intervention follows earlier directives aimed at managing stray dog populations, including the establishment of large-scale shelters and the implementation of sterilization programs. The case, now consolidated at the Supreme Court, aims to ensure a consistent and effective national strategy.