The Maharashtra Government has issued strict orders to all urban local bodies directing them to immediately initiate large-scale action to control the rising population of stray dogs across the state. The decision follows repeated directives from the Supreme Court in the suo-moto PIL “City Hounded by Strays, Kids Pay Price”, concerning increasing incidents of stray dog attacks and public safety concerns.
The Urban Development Department released a Government Resolution (GR) on Monday mandating sterilization, vaccination, tagging, designation of feeding zones, establishment of shelters, and creation of complaint helplines. The government has warned that failure to comply will be treated as contempt of court, and responsible officials will face personal accountability.
Supreme Court’s Concern Over Human–Dog Conflict
The Supreme Court, while hearing the case, observed that uncontrolled stray dog populations have resulted in frequent attacks, especially on children, posing serious threats to public safety. The Court emphasized the urgency of enforcing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023 across all cities.
The bench noted that municipal bodies have not implemented sterilization and vaccination programs adequately, leading to an alarming rise in dog-bite cases.
Key Government Directives to Local Bodies
1. Sterilization, Vaccination & Tagging
Municipal corporations, councils, and Nagar Panchayats must catch stray dogs and carry out sterilization, anti-rabies vaccination and ear-tag identification on priority.
2. Creation of Stray Dog Shelters
Local bodies must set up properly equipped shelters or holding centres for stray dogs after capture.
3. Designated Feeding Zones Only
Authorities must allocate specific feeding areas for community dogs. Feeding in open, public spaces such as streets, buildings or parks will not be allowed; violators will face punitive action.
4. Dedicated Helpline for Complaints
A helpline number for complaints about stray dog threats or attacks must be published and responses must be ensured promptly.
5. Anti-Rabies Vaccine Stock Mandatory
All government and private hospitals under municipal bodies must maintain adequate stock of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) and Immunoglobulin.
6. Immediate Action in Sensitive Public Locations
Stray dogs found near schools, hospitals, bus depots, railway stations, sports complexes and similar areas must be immediately removed and shifted to shelters. They must not be released again at the same site.
7. State-Level Coordination Officer Appointed
The Commissioner & Director of Municipal Administration, Navi Mumbai, has been designated as Nodal Officer to monitor implementation statewide.
Strict Enforcement & Legal Consequences
The GR warns that any non-compliance with the Supreme Court’s instructions will result in personal liability and departmental action under contempt of court provisions. Municipal bodies have been directed to file compliance reports regularly.
The government said the order aims to ensure public safety while maintaining humane treatment toward community animals under national rules.
Conclusion
The circular marks an aggressive policy shift to address the growing concern around stray dog attacks and public health risks. With mandatory sterilization, vaccination coverage, controlled feeding points and stronger enforcement, Maharashtra aims to strike a balance between citizen safety and animal welfare.
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