SC lists the matter concerning stray dog issues to May 08 and says, “We are not shying away from dealing with the issue but we will not allow the scope to be expanded”

In a significant development, the Supreme Court (SC) of India on April 24, 2024, said that it was not shying away from dealing with the issue of stray dogs concerning orders passed by various civic bodies, especially in Mumbai and Kerala. The bench comprising Justice JK Maheshwari and Justice Sanjay Karol said “Let us also clarify one thing. We are not shying away from dealing with the issue but we will not allow the scope to be expanded.” The bench was hearing petitions related to stray dog issues including those related to the provisions of the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Kerala Municipality Act, 1994. The bench asked the counsels representing states to look into the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, as it may resolve many of the issues presented before the court. The SC said “Please read the 2023 rules and the advisory carefully. If most problems are being resolved after studying them, then we can say that authorities may review the cases and handle the issues according to the law. And if problems still arise thereafter, the parties are free to approach the High Court.” It further listed the matter of hearing on May 08, 2024. Last year, the SC remarked that it wanted to hear the matter on merits and issue concrete guidelines rather than passing any interim directions.