SC’s Stray Dog Relocation Order Sparks Political, Civic Debate: Shiv Sena MP Flags Lack of Basic Arrangements

New Delhi | August 12, 2025: The Supreme Court of India’s recent directive ordering the removal of stray dogs from Delhi-NCR streets within eight weeks and relocating them to designated shelters has triggered a storm of reactions from political leaders, civic officials, and residents' associations.

While several Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWAs) welcomed the move as a necessary step to curb rising dog bite incidents, others—including Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi—raised concerns about the practicality and compassion involved in the execution.

Taking to social media platform X, Chaturvedi acknowledged the seriousness of the human-dog conflict, but stressed that the Supreme Court's order lacked clarity on infrastructure and preparedness.“The Supreme Court has passed the order, but there should have been an understanding of the need for basic arrangements for strays. Now, an innocent being who cannot speak for themselves will suffer the consequences,” she wrote.

On the other side of the debate, multiple RWAs expressed support, citing safety concerns. Atul Goyal, president of United Resident Joint Action (URJA), stated the directive could help reduce the number of bite incidents and even demanded similar action on stray cattle, which he claimed are causing road injuries and traffic disruptions.

Delhi Mayor Iqbal Singh also backed the court’s order. While admitting that Delhi currently lacks dedicated dog shelters, he noted that 10 sterilisation centres are operational and suggested that both temporary and permanent shelters could be developed in due course.“The MCD and Delhi government will prepare an action plan after detailed officer-level discussions,” Singh said.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described the stray dog issue as having reached “gigantic proportions.” She assured citizens that her administration would implement a planned and systematic policy in alignment with the apex court's directive.“We understand both public concerns and animal welfare. Our policy will ensure a humane and effective approach,” she added.

Meanwhile, animal rights activists and NGOs have voiced unease over the potential for hasty and inhumane relocations, warning against mass confinement without proper shelter, care, or rehabilitation.

As the deadline ticks down, all eyes are on how the Delhi government and civic authorities will strike a balance between public safety and animal welfare, ensuring the Supreme Court’s directive is executed responsibly and humanely.