‘Dogs Can Smell Fear’: Supreme Court Clarifies Scope of Orders in Stray Dogs Case
Background of the Suo Motu Proceedings The Supreme Court is currently hearing a suo motu case initiated on July 28 last year following media reports highlighting a sharp rise in stray dog bites and rabies cases , particularly affecting children in the National Capital Territory of Delhi . The proceedings stem from public health concerns and the apparent failure of authorities to effectively implement existing statutory mechanisms for stray dog management. Constitution of the Special Bench A three-judge special bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice N V Anjaria is hearing the matter. The hearing on Thursday remained inconclusive and has been scheduled to continue on Friday, indicating the complexity of balancing public safety, animal welfare, and statutory compliance . Supreme Court’s Clarification on Removal of Stray Dogs The Supreme Court categorically clarified that it has not directed the removal of all stray dogs from public streets . Justice Sa...