Comprehensive measures mandated for stray dog sterilization, vaccination, and public safety compliance
In a significant move to ensure public safety and animal welfare, the Rajasthan High Court has directed comprehensive compliance with the Supreme Court's directives concerning the management of stray dogs across the entire state of Rajasthan. The court's decision, delivered by a bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Maneesh Sharma, mandates local municipal authorities to implement a series of measures aimed at controlling the stray dog population and preventing dog bites.
The court emphasized the necessity for municipal bodies to undertake the removal, sterilization, and vaccination of stray dogs. This is in line with the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, ensuring that public areas such as educational institutions, hospitals, and transport hubs are adequately protected with fencing to prevent stray dog entry. A detailed compliance report is expected from the authorities, outlining the steps taken to adhere to these directives.
Additionally, the Union of India and the Animal Welfare Board have been instructed to establish district-level Animal Welfare Boards and develop Standard Operating Procedures for dog bite prevention. These measures are intended to create accountability mechanisms that ensure effective implementation.
The court also directed the state government to enforce the registration of pets, including dogs that may pose a threat to human life. The government is required to establish a time-frame for this registration process and impose penalties for non-compliance.
The directives are a response to the Supreme Court's earlier orders, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated efforts to manage the stray dog population and enhance public safety. The court has called for a collaborative approach, involving state authorities, municipal bodies, and non-governmental organizations, to educate communities on handling situations related to stray dogs.
Compliance with these directives is expected to be reported to the court by August 3, 2026, ensuring that the measures are not restricted to Jaipur but are implemented statewide. This initiative marks a critical step towards balancing animal welfare with public safety concerns in Rajasthan.
Bottom line:-
Compliance with Supreme Court directions on stray dog management, including sterilization, vaccination, and establishment of accountability mechanisms, directed for the entire State of Rajasthan.
Statutory provision(s): Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023
