Delhi High Court launches stray dog PIL

The Delhi High Court launched a suo motu public interest litigation to monitor compliance with Supreme Court directives on stray dog management in Delhi, directing the Delhi government, the MCD, and the Union government to file a status report by July 31. The bench, led by Justices Dinesh Mehta and Rajneesh Kumar Gupta, sought details on animal birth control, sterilisation, anti-rabies vaccination, and the number of shelters and dog pounds. The court highlighted the growing stray dog population, even noting dogs at the High Court premises, signaling urgency for public safety and welfare concerns. The proceedings align with a Supreme Court directive for all High Courts to initiate suo motu cases to ensure compliance, with state chief secretaries held personally accountable. Observers note a broader public concern over dog bites and safety, while progress has been slowed by disagreements among local groups and resource gaps. The matter is listed for further hearing on August 3, with updates anticipated on the implementation of 2025–2026 guidelines and related infrastructure like Animal Birth Control programs and shelters.