Delhi Government Unveils New Guidelines for Stray Dog Management Following Supreme Court Ruling

In a significant move to address the ongoing challenges posed by stray dogs in the capital, the Delhi government has released new guidelines aimed at managing the canine population, reducing human-dog conflicts, and eradicating rabies. This initiative comes nearly a month after the Supreme Court of India modified its previous order regarding the treatment of stray dogs, emphasizing the need for humane and effective management practices.

Supreme Court’s Intervention

On August 22, the Supreme Court clarified its stance on the management of stray dogs, modifying an earlier directive that prohibited the release of captured dogs back into their original habitats. The court mandated that sterilized and vaccinated dogs should be returned to the streets, except for those that are rabid or display aggressive behavior. This ruling not only underscores the importance of animal welfare but also highlights the need for a balanced approach to public safety.

The apex court’s decision prompted a broader inquiry, as it issued notices to all states and union territories, along with the Animal Husbandry department, to ensure compliance with humane treatment standards for stray animals.

New Guidelines from the Delhi Government

In response to the Supreme Court’s ruling, the Delhi Department of Urban Development has formulated comprehensive guidelines that align with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the recently updated Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023. These guidelines were disseminated to key municipal authorities, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), and the Delhi Cantonment Board (DCB).

Key Features of the Guidelines

1. Implementation Responsibility: The MCD, NDMC, and DCB are tasked with executing the new framework. Currently, the MCD operates 20 Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers in collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for the sterilization and vaccination of street dogs.

1. Collaboration with Recognized Organizations: Local authorities are instructed to engage exclusively with Animal Welfare Organizations (AWOs) recognized by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI).

1. Mandatory Training: Veterinarians and staff from these AWOs must undergo training at the ABC Training Centre, which is jointly operated by the AWBI, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of dog management.

1. Infrastructure Requirements: Each ABC center must be adequately equipped with facilities such as kennels, operation theaters with backup power, and safe waste disposal systems. Additionally, CCTV surveillance is mandated to monitor operations and ensure compliance.

1. Record Keeping: Detailed records of sterilization, vaccination, feeding, and medical care for street dogs must be maintained, with expenses for these services reimbursed to AWOs after verification.

1. Community Involvement: Local residents and Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) are encouraged to identify suitable feeding locations for stray dogs, ensuring that these spots are clean and safe for both animals and people.

1. Public Awareness Campaigns: The guidelines advocate for educational initiatives in partnership with schools and NGOs to inform the public about responsible dog ownership, feeding practices, and vaccination programs.

1. Pet Registration: Dog owners are required to register their pets if they are over three months old, with annual renewals linked to rabies vaccination certificates. Indian-bred dogs are exempt from registration fees, and their sterilization and initial vaccinations will be provided free of charge.

1. Handling Aggressive Dogs: The guidelines specify protocols for dealing with aggressive or rabid dogs, including isolation and scientific disposal of remains when necessary.

Community Response

Animal rights activists have welcomed the new guidelines, with former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi praising them as “truly brilliant.” The guidelines aim to strike a balance between public safety and animal welfare, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for humane treatment of stray animals.

Comparative Measures in Uttar Pradesh

In a parallel development, the Uttar Pradesh government has also introduced new regulations for managing aggressive stray dogs. Under these guidelines, dogs that bite humans without provocation will be held in an animal center for ten days, during which they will be sterilized and microchipped before being returned to their original locations. However, repeat offenders may face lifelong confinement unless adopted, with strict conditions imposed on adopters to ensure responsible care.

This approach highlights a regional variation in how different states are addressing the issue of stray dogs, with Uttar Pradesh focusing more on punitive measures for aggressive behavior.

Conclusion

The new guidelines issued by the Delhi government represent a significant step forward in the humane management of stray dogs, aligning with the Supreme Court’s emphasis on animal welfare. By fostering collaboration between local authorities, animal welfare organizations, and the community, these measures aim to create a safer environment for both humans and animals. As cities across India grapple with the complexities of stray dog populations, the Delhi model may serve as a blueprint for other regions seeking to balance public safety with compassion for animals.