CJI Gavai to Review Stray Dog Relocation in Delhi-NCR Amid Growing Debate
Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai on Wednesday said he would “look into” the recent controversy over relocating stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. His remark came after a petition was mentioned before his bench, urging regular sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs.
While CJI Gavai didn’t specify whether he was referring to an older 2024 petition or the Supreme Court’s latest order, his statement hinted at a willingness to re-examine the issue. Animal rights groups and NGOs have been vocal in criticising the recent ruling, calling it unfair to the animals.
In the ongoing case, CJI Gavai noted that an order had already been passed on the matter. This referred to the Supreme Court’s recent directive to civic bodies—Delhi Government, MCD, and NDMC—to catch all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR within eight weeks and move them to designated shelters.
What the Supreme Court Ordered
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court ordered that stray dogs be relocated to special shelters in an effort to curb rising dog bite cases, especially those involving children. The bench clarified that the move was purely “for public good” and instructed authorities to install CCTV cameras in these shelters to ensure the dogs are not released back onto the streets.
The court also directed that the dog-catching drive should start in all areas, with a focus on vulnerable localities. It further instructed municipal corporations and other agencies to build enough dog shelters within the set timeframe so that streets and public spaces remain free of stray dogs.
For now, the case has not been officially listed for a fresh hearing, but CJI Gavai’s comment has given hope to those calling for a balanced approach that safeguards both public safety and animal welfare.
