The Delhi government is taking strong steps to make the national capital India’s first city free of street dogs. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has confirmed this initiative. She stated that the government is working on a policy through which stray dogs will be removed from the streets and rehabilitated in safe and secure locations.
According to media reports, the number of stray dogs on Delhi’s streets is steadily increasing, causing significant problems for the general public. Taking note of this issue, the Delhi High Court has directed the government to formulate an effective policy.
Strict Stand by the High Court
The bench headed by Justice Mini Pushkarna described the matter as sensitive, stating that it is not just a municipal concern but also a major social and administrative issue. The court has forwarded the matter to the Chief Secretary of the Delhi government with orders to prepare a comprehensive policy.
The court made it clear that unless policies are developed with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders, no action will be truly effective. The government must create an inclusive and dedicated policy while taking steps in this direction.
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‘Adopt a Humane Approach in Rehabilitation’
The court also directed that the entire process of removing stray dogs from the streets must be carried out with special attention to humane treatment. Stray dogs not only pose risks to the public but often fall victim to road accidents themselves. Therefore, institutional rehabilitation is essential.
Case Linked to Petition by ‘Dog Amma’
These directions came in response to a petition filed by Pratima Devi, popularly known as ‘Dog Amma’. The court also emphasized that merely capturing and relocating dogs is not a solution—what’s needed is a concrete plan and structured system.
The High Court’s directions are being seen as a significant step in the areas of animal welfare, public health, and urban governance. If the Delhi government successfully implements this policy, it could serve as a model for other states across the country.