GUWAHATI: The Supreme Court instructed the Union of India to expedite the approval process for birth control regulations concerning feral, free-ranging, and domestic dogs that pose a threat to wildlife in protected areas and forests On Thursday, November 28. The Court urged that the matter be resolved within four weeks.
ALSO READ: NF Railway Electrifies Over 66% of Network, Targets 100% Green Operations
A bench of Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Ahsanuddin Amanuallah emphasised the urgency of the decision. The petition, filed by an environmental group, sought a writ of mandamus or appropriate directions to manage the issue of free-ranging and feral dogs attacking or hunting wildlife in such areas, with a particular focus on species like the Great Indian Bustard.
While the Animal Welfare Board of India has developed guidelines for stray dogs, the petitioner argued that there were no provisions addressing the growing problem of free-ranging dogs. The Court had previously directed the petitioner to submit a representation to the Board, which was required to review it.
Senior Advocate Manisha Karia, representing the Animal Welfare Board of India, informed the Court that a joint proposal had been reached between the Board, the petitioner, and the Union of India at the hearing. This proposal centred on implementing birth control measures for the affected dogs, which had already been outlined in existing rules. However, these regulations still require approval from the relevant Ministry of the Government of India.
However, Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Ahsanuddin Amanullah expressed that these dogs are found in various areas, with Justice Dhulia remarking, "They are found everywhere," said Justice Amanullah noting, "They are like wild dogs in packs."