Supreme Court Raises Alarm Over Stray Dogs on Roads: 'Can't Predict When They'll Bite,' Stresses Public Safety

The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed concerns about the presence of stray dogs on highways and public spaces, emphasising that their unpredictability poses risks not only through bites but also by triggering road accidents.

A three-judge bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria remarked that no one can foresee a dog's mood to bite, stating, "Prevention is better than cure." The bench insisted that roads must remain free of stray animals, adding, "They may not always bite, but they can still lead to mishaps on high-speed routes."

During the hearing of multiple interlocutory applications in the ongoing stray dog case, the court questioned the necessity of having strays in streets, schools, or public institutions. It sarcastically noted that suggestions for sterilising and releasing aggressive dogs back lacked only "counselling sessions" to ensure they behave post-release.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for petitioners advocating animal welfare, argued that problematic dogs could be captured, sterilised, vaccinated, and returned to their original areas. He maintained that strays typically stay in compounds rather than on roads.

The bench countered that such views appeared outdated, reiterating the dual threats of bites and accidents. "It's not just chasing or biting—vehicles swerving to avoid dogs endanger lives," the court observed.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, proposed empowering Residents' Welfare Associations (RWAs) in gated communities to decide on allowing stray dogs. Drawing an analogy, he said, "We all love animals, but we also prioritise human safety. If someone wants fresh milk, they can't bring a buffalo into society—it inconveniences others."

The proceedings build on prior Supreme Court directives. In November last year, the court ordered the immediate removal of strays from sensitive areas like schools, hospitals, bus stands, sports venues, and railway stations, mandating relocation to shelters without return to the pickup site. Earlier rulings had described the situation in Delhi and nearby regions as "extremely grim" due to escalating rabies-related deaths from bites, warning against interference in capture operations.

The bench also endorsed designated feeding zones to discourage random public feeding, threatening strict penalties for violations. Exceptions apply to rabid or overtly aggressive dogs, which are not relocated back.

The case, initiated suo motu amid reports of rising incidents, continues to balance animal welfare with public safety concerns. 

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