The Supreme Court today modified its earlier order regarding stray dogs in Delhi-NCR, ruling that strays can be released onto the streets after sterilisation. However, it directed that stray dogs cannot be fed in public areas and must be fed only in designated zones. The top court also asked civic bodies to create feeding areas for dogs in municipal wards.
Here are the top five highlights from today’s Supreme Court directives:
Civic bodies should create feeding areas in municipal wards. Under no condition, feeding of stray dogs is permitted. If violated they will be proceeded under law, the Supreme Court ordered.
The Supreme Court did not limit its order to Delhi-NCR but expanded its scope across India, issuing notices to all chief secretaries.
Unlike its August 8 order, the larger bench directed the release of the dogs to the same area after vaccination and deworming. However, the top court directed dogs with rabies or aggressive behaviour to be immunised and kept in separate shelters.
"Prohibition on release of strays shall be stayed. They should be dewormed, vaccinated and sent back to the same area," the Supreme Court said.
Animal lovers can submit applications to adopt dogs. It will be their responsibility to ensure the dogs are not returned to the streets, the Supreme Court said in its order.
No individual or organisation can obstruct officers in the discharge of their duties. The bench further ruled that dog lovers and NGOs who challenged the August 8 order must deposit Rs 25,000 and Rs 2 lakh with the registrar.
