SC summons Chief Secretaries over stray dogs affidavits; Delhi to appear

The Supreme Court on Monday (October 27, 2025) took a sharp stand against the laxity shown by several states and Union Territories in complying with its August 22 directive under the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023. The directive requires sterilisation, deworming, and immunisation of stray dogs, implemented under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. A three-judge Bench led by Justice Vikram Nath directed the Chief Secretaries of all states and UTs to personally appear before the Court on November 3 and explain why compliance affidavits have not been filed, despite ample time being granted.

Noting that repeated incidents of stray dog attacks were tarnishing the country’s image, the Bench rebuked authorities for continuing to miss the mark. The Court said, “Nothing has come on record. Continuous incidents are happening. Your country is being shown down in foreign countries.” The court clarified that only Telangana, West Bengal, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) had submitted compliance affidavits so far, and those reports have been treated as the record thus far. Consequently, the Chief Secretaries of the other states and UTs were told to remain present on November 3, with translations of their explanations as to why affidavits were not filed.

The Bench also noted that while the MCD’s report was on record, it would not suffice for an entire union territory’s compliance, and the Delhi Chief Secretary must appear in person. Additional submissions from the government side indicated that the August 22 directive aimed to curb stray dog populations ethically through the ABC framework. This matter underscores ongoing concerns about public safety and animal welfare across the country, with the Court pressing for timely, verifiable action rather than mere formalities.

As the date approaches, observers expect intense scrutiny of the affidavits and a possible course of action if non-compliance persists. The November 3 hearing is set to test the commitment of state administrations to implement the ABC Rules and to demonstrate accountability at the highest administrative levels.

Cover image source: Supreme Court summons to all states over affidavits in stray dogs case, Bengal, Telangana exempt 🔗

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