HC Pauses Implementation of GO Permitting Stray Dog Euthanasia

Quick Summary

• Kerala High Court Ruling: Deferred a government order permitting euthanasia of stray dogs by local bodies.
• Legal Considerations: the court emphasized balancing animal rights with fundamental human rights amidst rising incidents of stray dog attacks and related compensation claims.
• Data Requested:

– Population of stray dogs in Kerala.
– Statistics on stray dog bite incidents, including deaths, and anti-rabies vaccinations administered during the past year.
– Details on crimes registered under specific sections related to negligent conduct and harm to animals.

• Affidavits & Reports:

– State Police Chief directed to report crimes under Sections 291 and 325 of BNS within two weeks.
– Kerala Legal Services Authority instructed to set up district-level committees for adjudicating compensation claims within one month.Victims can file petitions physically or online through designated channels.

• Stray Dog Control Limitations:

– Kerala reportedly has ~3 lakh stray dogs; only ~15,767 sterilized last year due to inadequacy in functioning Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers (17 non-functional).
– Of ₹98 crore allocated for dog control measures, merely ₹13 crore spent.

Link for more details

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Kerala High Court’s decision reflects an effort toward a balanced approach between safeguarding animal welfare and addressing public safety concerns following increasing incidences of stray dog attacks. The directive stresses transparency through detailed affidavits on the extent of the problem while urging systemic actions like operationalizing Animal Birth Control centers and expediting compensation mechanisms for victims.

the glaring disparity between budget allocation (₹98 crore) versus utilization (₹13 crore) highlights inefficiencies that may need urgent resolution as part of broader measures ensuring humane population control methods over contentious solutions like euthanasia. Stray dog management remains a critical issue requiring cohesive state-wide action combining governmental accountability, legal oversight, infrastructure enhancement, public participation, and balance across ethical perspectives.

Link for more details