In a significant modification of its earlier directive, the Supreme Court on Friday (August 22, 2025) permitted the release of stray dogs back into their local habitats after mandatory deworming and vaccination.
A Bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria clarified that the previous blanket order prohibiting the release of strays will remain suspended for now. However, the court underscored that animals showing signs of aggression or infected with rabies must not be returned to public spaces.
Going beyond Delhi-NCR, the Bench expanded the scope of the proceedings nationwide, directing all States and Union Territories to contribute towards developing a uniform policy on stray dog management.
On the issue of feeding, the court categorically barred feeding of stray dogs on public streets. Feeding will only be permitted at designated zones, with prominent notice boards indicating the same. Individuals found feeding dogs outside these areas may face legal action.
Earlier, on August 11, 2025, a different bench led by Justices Pardiwala and Mahadevan had ordered the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and civic bodies to round up strays within eight weeks, house them in shelters, and not release them back on the streets. That order had also mandated the creation of large-scale shelters capable of accommodating at least 5,000 animals within two months.
