New Delhi: Days after the Supreme Court ordered the relocation of stray dogs from residential areas to designated shelters, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday announced a phased, systematic action plan to implement the directive, calling it a “turning point” in addressing the city’s long-standing stray dog concerns.
“Residents of Delhi have faced the stray dog menace for many years. We will carry out the Supreme Court’s order in a planned and humane manner,” Ms Gupta said, assuring both public safety and animal welfare.
For years, citizens from Rohini to South Delhi have voiced concerns over stray dog attacks, constant barking, and safety risks for children and the elderly. While some demanded immediate removal, animal welfare groups urged compassionate solutions. The Supreme Court’s order seeks to strike a balance—relocating dogs while ensuring they receive proper care in shelters.
Action Plan in Motion
According to Ms Gupta, the government has already begun groundwork. The key steps include:
Mapping hotspots where stray dog populations are high.
Expanding and upgrading shelters to accommodate increased numbers.
Coordinating with civic agencies to ensure humane relocation.
“Our priority is to provide relief to citizens while ensuring the dogs are housed in safe, well-maintained shelters,” she emphasised.
The first phase will involve identifying high-incidence zones across Delhi-NCR, followed by relocations once shelters are ready. Timelines will depend on infrastructure preparedness and inter-agency coordination.
The issue has drawn heightened public attention after NDTV’s India’s Dog Dilemma campaign highlighted rising cases of dog attacks—some fatal—bringing urgency to the debate. The coming weeks will test how swiftly and effectively Delhi can balance compassion for animals with safety for its residents.
