Overview
- On May 21, the Delhi High Court directed authorities to create a policy for institutional rehabilitation of stray dogs to phase them out of public streets.
- The directive arose from an octogenarian petition by Pratima Devi, known as “Dog Amma,” whose makeshift shelter caring for over 200 stray dogs was demolished by the MCD.
- Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on May 28 that the government is developing a long-term solution through a new platform uniting residents, animal welfare bodies, and civic agencies.
- Animal rights organizations warn that relocating community dogs may conflict with the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, which mandate their return to original localities after sterilization and vaccination.
- Stakeholder meetings called by the chief secretary and a policy draft are set for review at the next hearing on August 6, 2025.