Regular Drives For Sterlization And Immunization Of Stray Dogs An Important Public Function: High Court To Delhi Govt

The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Government and civic authorities to continue making efforts for sterlization and immunization of stray dogs in the national capital.

“The respondents are directed to ensure that they continue with their efforts and drive for sterilization and immunization of stray dogs, as the same is an important public function and is required to be performed in all its earnestness,” a division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Jasmeet Singh ordered.

The court disposed of two public interest litigations moved by NGO Conference for Human Rights (India) and Triveni Apartments Welfare Association for ensuring sterlization of stray dogs.

It was the case of the petitioners that the Animal Birth Control (Dog) Rules, 2001, made under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act, 1960, have not been complied with.

As per the said Rules, the authorities are duty bound to take up regular sterilization and immunization programmes of stray dogs, in order to curtail their growing population.

It was also submitted that due to the non-performance of statutory duties, there is a rapid increase in stray dog population in Delhi resulting in an increase of dog bites cases.

The court disposed of the pleas being satisfied with the affidavits filed by Delhi Government’s Animal Husbandry Unit and South Delhi Municipal Corporation stating that the authorities are regularly conducting the sterilization and immunization of stray dogs and are performing their statutory duties.

Case Title: CONFERENCE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS (INDIA) (REGD.) v. UNION OF INDIA AND ORS. and other connected matter

Citation: 2023 LiveLaw (Del) 705

Click Here To Read Order