This case commentary is written by Bhavanya E K, a BBA LLB (Hons.) 3rd year student of Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University Trichy, Tamil Nadu.
Case Comment: In Re: “City Hounded by Strays, Kids Pay Price”
Court: Supreme Court of India
Citation: 2025 INSC 1018
Date: 22 August 2025
Jurisdiction: Suo Motu Writ Petition (Civil) No. 5 of 2025
Bench: Hon’ble Mr. Justice Vikram Nath, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Hon’ble Mr. Justice N.V. Anjaria
Amicus Curiae: Mr. Gaurava Aggarwal, Sr. Adv.
Abstract
The Supreme Court of India’s Stray Dog Verdict (2025) marked a decisive intervention in balancing public health concerns with animal rights protections. Triggered by rising incidents of dog bites and rabies deaths, the Court declared a public health emergency in Delhi NCR and directed municipal authorities to remove stray dogs from public spaces and place them in shelters. The judgment emphasized the constitutional duty of compassion for animals (Art. 51A(g)) while prioritizing citizens’ right to life and safety (Art. 21). It mandated sterilization drives, vaccination programs, and accountability of municipal bodies, while also clarifying guidelines on feeding stray dogs. The verdict sparked debate between animal welfare advocates and public safety proponents, highlighting the tension between humane treatment and urgent health measures.
Keywords: Public Health Emergency, Animal Rights, Sterilization & Vaccination, Municipal Accountability, Constitutional Balance
