NEWS: Supreme Court of India allowed euthanasia of rabid and dangerously aggressive stray dogs while issuing fresh directions on stray animal management.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

·         SC refused to withdraw its 2025 order for removal of stray dogs from sensitive public places like: Schools, Hospitals, Railway stations, Airports

·         Court clarified: Such dogs cannot automatically be treated as “community dogs” under ABC Rules, 2023.

·         SC stated: Article 21 of the Constitution of India includes the right of citizens to access public places without fear of dog attacks.

MAJOR DIRECTIONS

·         Authorities can euthanize: Rabid dogs, Dangerously aggressive dogs

·         Local body officials given protection from: FIRs, Criminal complaints during official duty

·         NHAI directed to remove stray cattle menace on highways.

States/UTs must:

·         Strictly enforce Animal Welfare Board rules

·         Establish at least one ABC centre per district

·         Ensure anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulins

·         High Courts to monitor implementation through suo motu proceedings.

ETHICAL CONCERNS

·         Conflict between: Human safety vs animal rights, Compassion vs mercy killing

·         Risk of misuse: Arbitrary classification of dogs as “dangerous”

·         SC in Jallikattu Case 2014 expanded Article 21 protections to animals as well.

ALTERNATIVES SUGGESTED

·         Adoption and rehabilitation models like Italy’s “RandAgiamo” project

·         Responsible pet ownership and mandatory registration

·         Better sterilization and vaccination programmes under ABC Rules

SIGNIFICANCE

·         Strengthens public safety and rabies control.

·         Balances animal welfare with citizens’ right to life.

Pushes states toward scientific stray animal management.