SC Orders Removal of Stray Dogs from Public Premises: What Are ABC Rules?, Pg19.

Key Highlights:

• SC directed authorities to remove stray dogs from specific public spaces and shift them to designated shelters after sterilisation and vaccination.
• Action must follow the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules), 2023, notified under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
• The Rules aim to control stray dog populations humanely and prevent rabies through sterilisation drives.
• The Rules use the term “community animals” instead of “stray dogs” to emphasise their territorial association with local environments.
• Feeding of community animals is allowed, but must follow regulated and designated arrangements made by local bodies.

Detailed Insights:

• ABC Rules, 2023 – Key Provisions:
  • Municipal bodies are responsible for sterilisation, vaccination, and rehabilitation of stray dogs.
  • Resident Welfare Associations / Local Bodies must coordinate feeding, but not inside public premises where safety concerns exist.
  • Disputes on location of feeding points must involve Animal Welfare Board, veterinary officers, and police for resolution.
• Public Health and Safety Context:
  • Rising dog bite cases and rabies-related deaths prompted stricter enforcement.
  • The focus is to protect citizens, especially children and hospital visitors, while avoiding cruelty to animals.
• Implementation Challenge:
  • Requires well-funded shelters, coordinated municipal action, and monitoring of sterilisation efficiency.
  • State capacity and uneven municipal preparedness remain key bottlenecks.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Rabies Control: Rabies is a fatal viral disease; prevention relies on mass dog vaccination + post-exposure prophylaxis.
• Animal Birth Control (ABC) Method: Sterilisation reduces population growth over time and stabilises territorial dog groups.
• Human–Animal Conflict in Urban Spaces: Caused by unplanned urbanization, waste mismanagement, and resource competition.