The High Court of Telangana, under the leadership of Chief Justice and Justice, recently deliberated on the pressing issue of stray dogs in Hyderabad. The court addressed two Public Interest Litigations (PILs), including a suo motu case initiated after a news report highlighted incidents of stray dogs attacking children and elderly residents.
In response to the growing concern, the court had previously instructed the State Government to establish a committee for implementing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023. Subsequently, the government formed the State Animal Birth Control Implementation and Monitoring Committee through a government order dated July 16, 2024. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) submitted a detailed report on the measures taken to manage the stray dog situation. These initiatives encompass conducting awareness programmes, training municipal staff, and ensuring the registration of pet dogs. Moreover, the GHMC is developing a mobile application to provide real-time data on dog-catching operations, sterilizations, and vaccinations.
The High Court underscored the necessity of adhering to the ABC Rules, 2023. It directed the GHMC to file an affidavit detailing compliance with specific rules, including the establishment of Animal Birth Control Centres and the provision of helplines for dog-related complaints. The court also advised the GHMC to consider the possibility of setting up rehabilitation centres for stray dogs outside the municipal limits of Hyderabad. In its deliberations, the court clarified an essential aspect of the ABC Rules: sterilised and immunised dogs should be released back into the area where they were captured, except in cases where the dogs are taken in for rehabilitation. This clarification aims to balance public safety with animal welfare, ensuring that stray dogs are managed humanely and effectively.
The court’s directives reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing the stray dog problem, combining legal compliance with practical solutions. The involvement of the judiciary highlights the seriousness of the issue, which has significant implications for public safety and urban management. As the GHMC implements these measures, the situation in Hyderabad will be closely monitored to ensure that the actions taken are effective and in line with the court’s guidelines. This judicial intervention serves as a reminder of the critical role that law and governance play in addressing complex societal issues. The ongoing efforts to manage the stray dog population in Hyderabad demonstrate the need for a coordinated and compassionate approach, balancing the concerns of residents with the welfare of animals.
