The Supreme Court on Friday modified its earlier directive that had prohibited the release of stray dogs from shelters in Delhi-NCR. A special three-judge bench led by Justice Vikram Nath ruled that captured stray dogs must undergo sterilisation and vaccination before being released back into the same locality. However, the court clarified that this order will not apply to dogs suffering from rabies, those suspected of carrying the infection, or animals displaying aggressive behaviour. The modification comes as a relief to animal welfare groups who had expressed concerns over the earlier blanket prohibition on release.

In its order, the apex court also addressed the growing issue of feeding stray dogs in public spaces. The bench directed municipal bodies to establish designated feeding zones in each ward, based on the density and concentration of stray dogs. The court made it clear that feeding on the streets will no longer be permitted, and violators will face legal action under relevant provisions. It further instructed civic authorities to install notice boards near these feeding areas, ensuring that citizens are aware that strays can only be fed in such designated spaces.

Expanding the scope of the case beyond Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court impleaded all states and Union Territories as parties and consolidated pending pleas from different high courts. The matter, which originated from a suo motu case over rising incidents of stray dog bites and rabies infections—particularly among children—has now been scheduled for further hearing after eight weeks. With this interim order, the court has struck a balance between public safety and animal rights, placing responsibility on civic bodies to regulate both the sterilisation and feeding of stray dogs across India.