How can the Supreme Court’s directive to treat stray animals with compassion be balanced with concerns about public safety and health?

The Supreme Court’s directive to treat stray animals, especially dogs, with compassion is rooted in constitutional and statutory mandates like Article 51A(g) of the Indian Constitution (duty to show compassion to living creatures) and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. However, urban communities often face real challenges such as dog bites, rabies, and general public nuisance. Balancing these concerns requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Implementation of Animal Birth Control (ABC) Program:
  • Effective sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs to control population and prevent rabies.
  • Regular monitoring and scientific management of ABC programs by local bodies.
• Clear Zoning and Relocation:
  • Identifying areas where stray animals can be safely relocated without disrupting human habitation.
  • Creating animal shelters and dog parks to house strays away from densely populated areas.
• Community Involvement and Awareness:
  • Educating the public about responsible feeding practices and the importance of not provoking animals.
  • Involving Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in monitoring and managing stray animal populations.
• Strengthening Legal and Administrative Framework:
  • Strict enforcement of existing animal welfare and public health regulations.
  • Setting up fast-track grievance redressal mechanisms for both animal cruelty and public safety complaints.
• Medical and Emergency Response:
  • Ensuring availability of anti-rabies vaccines and first aid in hospitals and clinics.
  • Quick response teams for handling aggressive or diseased animals.
• Scientific Assessment and Data Collection:
  • Conducting regular surveys to track stray populations and incidents of animal-human conflict.
  • Using data to inform policy and improve management strategies.

By integrating compassion for animals with robust public safety measures, it is possible to create urban environments where both humans and stray animals can coexist with minimal conflict.