New Delhi: The Supreme Court has expressed concern over the increasing threat posed by stray dogs, criticising several states for their inadequate measures to control the issue. The Court highlighted the lack of effective sterilisation programmes, insufficient dog pounds, and the failure to remove stray dogs from public institutions such as schools, hospitals, and colleges.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court showed particular surprise at Assam’s statistics. In 2024, there were 1.66 lakh reported cases of dog bites in the state, yet only one dog centre is operational. The Court described this as alarming, noting that in January 2025 alone, 20,900 people were bitten by dogs in Assam. The bench expressed strong dissatisfaction, emphasising that the situation is extremely serious and requires immediate and effective action from the states.
Senior advocate Gaurav Agrawal, assisting the Court as amicus curiae, informed the bench that Andhra Pradesh has 39 Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres capable of sterilising 1,619 dogs daily. He recommended that the state conduct an audit of its facilities to ensure full utilisation and set clear deadlines for establishing additional centres. Agrawal also suggested involving local communities and relevant organisations in identifying and counting stray dogs.
Regarding Assam, Agrawal pointed out that the state has only three municipal corporations but very few ABC centres. He urged that Assam start by increasing the number of these centres and prepare a detailed action plan for effective implementation.
The issue of stray dogs on the beaches of Goa and Kerala was also raised. Agrawal noted that dogs released back onto these coastal areas cannot be allowed, as it adversely affects tourism. The Court concurred, recalling experiences shared during a Supreme Court Advocates on Record Association (SCAORA) conference in Goa where stray dogs caused difficulties.
On Wednesday, several states submitted status reports before the Court, which emphasised the need to strengthen infrastructure for sterilisation, vaccination, and dog shelters. The Court directed states to enhance these facilities promptly.
The next hearing in this case is scheduled for 5 February. This matter holds significant importance amid a rise in stray dog bite incidents across the country, highlighting the challenge of balancing public safety with animal welfare.
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