More concern for stray dogs than for humans

January 9, 2026

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court heard petitions filed on the issue of stray dogs. In these petitions, animal lovers argued that voiceless animals should not be subjected to cruelty. They have as much right to live as humans do. But the apex court said that they have received a large number of applications regarding stray dogs, more than they receive for humans.

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria, while hearing the case, commented that stray dogs must be removed from the streets at all costs. It’s not just about them biting and spreading rabies; when they chase people, they are also causing accidents on the roads. The court also asked what is the need for dogs in hospitals, schools, and court premises? Who could object to removing them from there? When lawyer Kapil Sibal, representing the animal lovers, said, “I go to the temple, but I have never been bitten by a dog,” the bench replied, “You are lucky, but people are being bitten, people are dying.”

When Kapil Sibal repeatedly presented his arguments, the court said that he didn’t need to be so enthusiastic. Sibal replied, “I am not enthusiastic, but worried.”The court said, “You don’t need to be worried.” The court made a strong remark, asking how long will ordinary people have to suffer due to stray dogs? The hearing before the bench in the Supreme Court on Wednesday lasted for two and a half hours, after which the arguments were adjourned to the next day, Thursday