CJI to Review Stray Dog Case Following 2024 SC Order on Animal Compassion

Rapid Summary

• Chief Justice of India B.R.Gavai agreed to review an urgent plea challenging a Supreme Court order dated August 11, 2025, which directed authorities in Delhi-NCR to round up stray dogs within six to eight weeks and house them in shelters permanently.
• The directive warned of contempt action against those resisting the removal and asked authorities to treat it as a priority due to increasing incidents of dog attacks, especially involving children.
• Animal rights activists have raised concerns about insufficient shelter capacity for approximately 5,000 community dogs and potential cruelty during their capture.
• An earlier order from May 2024 emphasized compassionate treatment for stray canines under existing laws such as the Prevention of cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and Animal Birth Control Rules, 2001.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The Supreme Court’s recent directive highlights a critical tension between public safety concerns and animal welfare principles in urban areas like Delhi-NCR. While increasing instances of dog attacks necessitate immediate action to protect human lives-a valid concern-the execution faces logistical hurdles such as inadequate shelter facilities and risks of mishandling animals during mass removal efforts. Balancing compassion with pragmatic solutions remains key here; adherence to established laws while solving practical issues could indicate how effectively urban governance addresses ethical dilemmas concerning shared spaces between humans and animals.

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