The Meghalaya High Court has issued strong directives to the state government to take immediate and comprehensive action against the growing stray dog menace. This order comes amid rising public concerns about safety, especially in urban and semi-urban areas.
The court’s decision follows a public interest litigation (PIL) filed in response to repeated complaints about dog attacks, unsanitary conditions, and lack of sterilisation efforts in various towns. The bench, headed by Chief Justice S Vaidyanathan, expressed serious concern over the issue, emphasizing the need for responsible governance and enforcement of animal control laws.
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Court urges swift enforcement of sterilisation laws
During the hearing, the court highlighted that the lack of timely sterilisation had led to a significant increase in the stray dog population. It criticised the government for not executing effective animal birth control (ABC) programs under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
According to the court, the problem had reached a stage where passive monitoring was no longer sufficient. Authorities must initiate aggressive sterilisation drives while ensuring the dogs’ humane treatment. The bench noted that an effective ABC programme remains the most humane and long-term solution to control stray dog populations without violating animal rights.
Urban areas bear the brunt
Cities like Shillong, Tura, and Jowai have reported a rise in dog bite incidents. Many residents have expressed concern over increasing threats to schoolchildren, morning walkers, and sanitation workers. While municipalities have attempted some rescue efforts, the lack of consistent planning and funding has reduced their impact.
The Shillong Municipal Board has struggled with limited manpower and resources to carry out sterilisation and vaccination. The court has now asked local authorities to submit detailed monthly reports on progress in managing stray dog numbers.
State directed to frame policy within 30 days
The High Court has directed the Meghalaya government to develop a comprehensive and time-bound policy within 30 days. This plan should include the creation of dedicated animal shelters, the implementation of door-to-door awareness campaigns, and mass sterilisation and vaccination drives.
The court also stressed the importance of collaboration between municipal bodies, veterinary departments, and local NGOs. Proper coordination will help ensure that humane practices are maintained during dog catching and rehabilitation.
Public safety and animal rights both prioritised
Chief Justice S Vaidyanathan clarified that the court does not advocate violence against animals. Instead, the directive seeks to balance public safety with animal welfare. The judgment cites several Supreme Court rulings that advocate ethical treatment of animals while acknowledging the threat posed by uncontrolled stray populations.
The order emphasizes the need to treat animals with dignity and compassion. However, it also warns the government that failure to act may lead to further legal consequences, especially if dog attacks continue to rise.
Call for increased funding and infrastructure
Another major point raised by the court is the need for better funding. Several municipalities lack dedicated veterinary hospitals, trained personnel, or even transport vehicles to manage dog-catching operations. The court asked the state to allocate separate budgetary provisions for stray animal management in the upcoming fiscal year.
Additionally, the court proposed the formation of a state-level monitoring committee. This body will include members from the Animal Husbandry Department, legal experts, municipal officials, and animal welfare activists. It will supervise the implementation of all orders and file regular reports with the High Court.
Citizens urged to avoid feeding in public places
The court has also requested residents to refrain from feeding stray dogs in public areas like markets, schools, and religious spaces. Though feeding is not banned, the bench encouraged people to do so responsibly, preferably near animal shelters or designated zones.
Unregulated feeding, the court observed, often results in dogs forming territorial groups in sensitive zones. This behavior increases the risk of aggression, especially during feeding time.
Way forward
Legal experts believe that the court’s intervention could become a model for other states facing similar challenges. Assam, Nagaland, and West Bengal have also reported a rise in stray dog numbers, but action has largely been sporadic.
In Meghalaya, authorities now have a clear legal mandate to act swiftly. With judicial monitoring in place, many expect accelerated progress over the next few months.
Animal rights groups welcomed the order, calling it a balanced approach. Representatives from the People for Animals (PFA) and Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) stated that while sterilisation is essential, transparency and compassion must guide the process.
The Meghalaya High Court has taken a proactive step to address a growing public concern. Through legal guidance and firm deadlines, it has offered a roadmap that could lead to safer streets and better animal welfare. Now, the onus lies on the state government to act with urgency, empathy, and accountability.
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