Question of implementing SC order on stray dogs with ‘compassion’, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court directed municipal authorities to remove stray dogs from public places and institutions for sterilization and vaccination.
• The court order was passed without hearing from animal rights activists, organizations, or experts.
• The court highlighted administrative indifference leading to increased stray dog attacks, undermining the right to life under Article 21.
• In November 2015, the Supreme Court mandated local authorities to ensure adequate facilities, including dog shelters.

Detailed Insights:

• Article 51A(g) of the Constitution mandates compassion for living creatures as a fundamental duty of every Indian citizen.
• Section 3 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, requires those in charge of animals to ensure their well-being and prevent unnecessary suffering.
• The Supreme Court's 2014 judgment in Animal Welfare Board versus A. Nagaraja emphasized the inherent dignity and right to peaceful life for all living creatures.
• The court noted the ineffective implementation of the Animal Birth Control Rules across jurisdictions.
• A 2015 Supreme Court ruling emphasized the "sacrosanct duty" of local authorities to provide sufficient facilities, including dog shelters.
• The court in 2015 ordered municipal authorities to ensure dog vans, drivers, ambulance-cum-clinical vans, incinerators, and shelter repairs, but compliance has been lacking.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Article 21: Guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.
• Article 51A(g): Fundamental duty to have compassion for living creatures.
• Animal Birth Control Rules: Guidelines for managing stray dog populations through sterilization and vaccination.