Vijay Goel Celebrates Supreme Court’s Bold Stand on Stray Dog Crisis: A Heartfelt Plea for Compassion
The Supreme Court of India has summoned the Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories, except for West Bengal and Telangana, to appear before it on November 3. This directive underscores the ongoing efforts to address the growing stray dog issue, a topic that has garnered significant attention recently.
Former Union Minister Vijay Goel has expressed strong support for the Supreme Court’s recent stance on the matter. On November 3, the court directed states to adhere to its August 22 order, which mandates the sterilization, deworming, and immunization of stray dogs according to the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, enacted under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Goel, who has campaigned extensively on this issue, highlighted the alarming statistics: more than 120 million stray dogs roam the nation, with over one million in Delhi alone. Furthermore, approximately five million people are bitten by dogs each year, emphasizing the scale of the problem.
Goel argued that merely sterilizing the strays will not be enough to resolve the issue. He advocated for relocating these animals to proper shelters, as previously directed by two separate Supreme Court benches. His comments come in light of the Supreme Court’s observation that only three states and Union Territories have filed compliance reports regarding the specified directives, while the remaining jurisdictions have failed to do so.
“This is not just a health and safety issue; it directly impacts our economy, tourism, and India’s international image. It is imperative that governments take decisive action now; otherwise, the court may have to implement more stringent measures,” Goel stated.
This legal development is part of a broader conversation on animal welfare and public safety, as many advocate for comprehensive strategies to manage the burgeoning stray dog population. The Supreme Court’s involvement highlights the critical nature of the problem and the responsibilities of state authorities to comply with judicial mandates aimed at animal control and public health.
As India grapples with this pressing issue, the need for effective implementation of animal welfare laws and proactive measures becomes increasingly urgent. The upcoming court appearance on November 3 will be crucial in determining the future course of action in addressing the stray dog dilemma across the country.
This situation remains a focal point for not just animal rights activists but also for public health experts and policymakers, highlighting the intersection of animal welfare with urban management and safety. In light of rising urbanization, the approach taken by state governments in response to this Supreme Court directive will be vital in shaping the future landscape of stray dog management in India.
Published – October 28, 2025, 01:42 am IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/vijay-goel-welcomes-scs-stand-on-stray-dog-issue/article70210104.ece
Category : Delhi
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Publish Date: 2025-10-28 01:42:00
