The Supreme Court today refused to recall its earlier directions that stray dogs picked up from public places must not be released back after vaccination or sterilisation. A bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath dismissed pleas seeking modification of the November 2025 order and directed authorities to confine such dogs to shelters.

 

The Court cited deeply disturbing incidents of dog attacks on children, elderly persons and travellers and said the menace had reached critical public areas, including airports and residential colonies. The bench warned that officials failing to implement the directions could face contempt and disciplinary action.

 

The Court also directed States and Union Territories to set up Animal Birth Control centres, ensure availability of anti-rabies vaccines, and take legally permissible measures, including euthanasia of rabid or dangerous dogs. High Courts have been asked to monitor compliance through suo motu cases.