New Delhi, November 7, 2025 — The Supreme Court has issued a series of directives aimed at safeguarding key public spaces from stray dogs, cattle, and other animals, citing concerns over public safety and hygiene.
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria mandated that all educational institutions, hospitals, sports complexes, bus stands, and railway stations be properly fenced to prevent the entry of stray animals. Municipal authorities have been instructed to conduct regular removal drives and relocate captured animals to designated shelters following sterilisation and vaccination under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023.
The Court emphasized that stray dogs removed from these premises must not be released back into the same areas, stating that such actions would undermine the purpose of the exercise. It also directed states and union territories to appoint nodal officers at each institution to oversee compliance and ensure ongoing surveillance.
Additionally, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been ordered to clear highways of stray cattle and implement preventive measures to avoid traffic hazards. The Court has sought compliance reports within eight weeks, reinforcing its commitment to public welfare and institutional accountability.
These measures are part of a broader initiative to address the growing stray animal menace and ensure safer, cleaner public environments across the country.
