The Supreme Court has issued a strong directive: any mistreatment of women feeding stray dogs warrants an immediate FIR. This ruling highlights the judiciary’s commitment to safeguarding animal feeders from aggressive backlash in neighborhoods plagued by stray dog issues.
During a recent petition hearing, the apex court bench clarified that while stray dog bites and nuisances are valid concerns, they do not justify abusing individuals showing compassion. The judges pointed out multiple cases where women were threatened, abused, or even assaulted for their acts of kindness.
‘Law must protect the feeders, not the abusers,’ the court stated firmly. It instructed all police authorities to register FIRs without delay and investigate such incidents thoroughly, treating them as cognizable offenses.
This comes against the backdrop of the Animal Birth Control Rules, which encourage feeding sterilized strays in designated areas. However, conflicts arise when residents perceive feeding as encouraging dog proliferation.
Municipal bodies now face renewed pressure to implement ABC programs effectively. Animal rights activists celebrate the verdict as a victory for coexistence, while community leaders call for dialogue to resolve human-animal conflicts peacefully.
Ultimately, the Supreme Court’s order fosters a safer environment for benevolent citizens, ensuring that goodwill towards strays doesn’t invite danger.
