Delhi High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Stray Dog Bite Incidents
The Delhi High Court on Monday initiated a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the rising number of stray dog bite incidents in the national capital. The court observed that such incidents are occurring on a daily basis and require urgent attention from authorities.
A division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula took note of media reports highlighting the gravity of the situation. The court stated that the issue affects the safety and health of residents, particularly children and the elderly who are most vulnerable to dog attacks.
The High Court has directed the Delhi government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and the Delhi Police to file their responses within four weeks. The court also sought details on the steps being taken to control the stray dog population and prevent such incidents.
According to official data, over 50,000 dog bite cases were reported in Delhi in 2023 alone. Animal rights activists have argued that the solution lies in sterilisation and vaccination programmes, rather than culling. The court is expected to hear the matter next on a date to be fixed.
The suo motu PIL underscores the judiciary's role in addressing public safety concerns when executive action is perceived as inadequate. The court has emphasised the need for a balanced approach that ensures both human safety and animal welfare.
