In light of the recent Supreme Court directive urging states to balance public safety with animal welfare in managing the stray dog population, the legal and policy framework surrounding rabies control and stray dog management has gained renewed attention. While the issue evokes strong public sentiments, the legal and administrative response is rooted in a structured framework that balances public health, animal welfare, and constitutional mandates.
The menace created due to rising bite incidents and public health concerns has prompted a response from both the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, reflecting a multi-sectoral approach to a complex challenge.
Administrative approach:
The Government’s efforts to combat rabies and manage the stray dog population reflect a robust and evolving administrative framework. Key initiatives are led by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare through:
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National Rabies Control Programme (‘NRCP’)
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National Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination (‘NAPRE’)
These programs aim to strengthen surveillance, improve access to treatment, and raise public awareness across all States and Union Territories.
Under the National Health Mission (‘NHM’), States and UTs receive budgetary support to carry out rabies control activities. Key provisions include:
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Free supply of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (‘ARV’) and Rabies Immunoglobulin (‘RIG’) via the National Free Drug Initiative.
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Inclusion of ARV and RIG in National and State Essential Drug Lists, ensuring consistent availability in public health facilities.
To improve treatment outcomes and streamline service delivery, the government is:
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Establishing Model Anti-Rabies Clinics and wound-washing facilities in key locations.
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Conducting training programs for healthcare professionals to ensure proper bite management and vaccine administration.
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Supporting data entry systems, review meetings, and monitoring mechanisms to enhance operational efficiency.
Alongside, the Central Government has revised its Scheme for Birth Control and Immunization of Stray Dogs and Cats, implemented through the Animal Welfare Board of India (‘AWBI’).
This scheme provides:
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₹800 per dog and ₹600 per cat for sterilization and vaccination procedures.
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A one-time infrastructure grant of ₹2 crore for State-run veterinary hospitals to develop surgical theatres, kennels, and recovery units.
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Shelter establishment support of up to ₹15 lakh for small animals and ₹27 lakh for large animals, available to Urban Local Bodies, Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCAs), and recognized Animal Welfare Organizations.
Legal Framework
To address the issue with legal clarity, the Central Government notified the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. These rules are aligned with international standards set by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), advocating the Capture Neuter Vaccinate Release approach.
Since stray dog management falls under the subject of State Governments, the Rules mandate that local bodies and Urban Local Bodies to implement sterilization and vaccination programs in collaboration with recognized Animal Welfare Organizations (‘AWOs’).
Key mandates under the Animal Birth Control Rules include:
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Sterilization and vaccination programmes led by Urban Local Bodies in collaboration with animal welfare organizations.
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Issue Advisories Local Bodies to sterilize at least 70% of stray dogs.
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Establishment of Animal Birth Control units across cities and towns.
Judicial Intervention:
In a notable judicial turn, on 11-08-2025 the Supreme Court, in suo motu proceedings on stray dogs sparked by public safety concerns, ordered the removal of stray dogs from public areas in Delhi-NCR to shelter homes. The case, however, took a new direction when the matter was reassigned from a two-Judge bench to a three-Judge bench.
In re. City Hounded by Strays, Kids pay Price 2025 SCC OnLine SC 1688
A three-Judge Bench comprising Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and Justice NV Anjaria, JJ., heard pleas challenging the directions issued on 11-08-2025 for relocating stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to designated shelters. After extensive arguments, the Bench reserved its order on the stay applications and issued directives. [In re. City Hounded by Strays, Kids pay Price 2025 SCC OnLine SC 1688]
Also Read: The Stray Dog Case Explained: Key Developments and Updates.
The Rajasthan High Court had also taken suo motu cognizance of the growing menace posed by stray animals, particularly dogs and cattle, on public roads and highways. Citing rising incidents of bites and accidents, the Division Bench of Justices Kuldeep Mathur and Ravi Chirania directed municipal bodies to conduct special drives for their removal while ensuring minimal harm. Authorities were also instructed to improve shelter facilities and enforce public safety measures. [Suo Motu v. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, 2025 SCC OnLine Raj 3831]
Stray dogs bite ,which is harmful .you can vaccinate but not prevent them from biting.is sterilisation effective even for people of India is failure then what about dogs.people should feel safe on roads .In Europe you won’t see single stray dog on roads forget about bites.we are far away from these countries.Isnt it our right to stay safe .Courts decision is 100%right.
Sterilise female dogs. That was how stray dog menace was managed in the state of Goa