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Supreme Court Orders Removal of Stray Dogs From Schools, Hospitals and Transport Hubs, Barring Return to Same Sites

The bench set nationwide fencing, inspection and relocation rules under strict deadlines with chief secretaries held personally accountable.

Overview

  • Local bodies must capture stray dogs from educational, medical, sports and transport premises, sterilise and vaccinate them, and relocate them to designated shelters without re-release to the same locations.
  • States and UTs must secure identified institutions with fencing or gates, appoint nodal officers, and ensure municipal inspections at least every three months to prevent re-entry or habitat formation.
  • A two-week survey to map covered premises and an eight-week compliance report are mandated, with the matter listed for further hearing on January 13, 2026.
  • The Animal Welfare Board of India was made a party and directed to frame uniform SOPs for managing stray dogs within institutional areas.
  • The court also ordered coordinated removal of stray cattle and other animals from highways, with relocation to shelters, creation of highway patrols and helplines, and personal liability for non-compliance.