"Stray Dogs Are A Neglected Lot": Delhi High Court Issues Notice On PIL Seeking Vaccination, Healthcare Infra

The Delhi High Court has sought response from the Delhi government on a public interest litigation raising several important issues with regard to the health, care and protection of stray dogs in the national capital.

"It appears that the stray dogs in the city are a neglected lot and it is necessary to look after them not only as a measure of respect for animal life but also because there will be a direct impact on the human population in the city," a Division Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Vipin Sanghi and Justice Sachin Datta observed.

The primary concern of Petitioner, Rahul Mohod, is that there is no mechanism to vaccinate stray dogs to protect them from Canine Distemper and Parvovirus (CPV) infection, which are stated to be highly contagious diseases and known killers. The Petitioner also raised a grievance that there is hardly any infrastructure in place for vaccination or treatment of stray dogs and whatever little infrastructure is available- is practically dysfunctional.

In this regard, he pointed out that there are only 2 ambulances in the city for approximately 21 lakh dogs. Further, there is no helpline number to call such ambulance or where a citizen may report a stray dog who may be in need of medical attention.

The Petitioner thus prayed that an independent committee be constituted to submit a report on animal welfare health mechanisms.

During the hearing, Standing Counsel SK Tripathi appearing on advance notice, claimed that there is no research to suggest that the above named diseases are common in India or are deadly. He added that there is no specific vaccine against these diseases, however, there may be immunity boosters.

Disagreeing with this submission, Justice Sanghi orally remarked,

"That's not correct. A lot of dogs die due to Distemper or Parvovirus...All pet dogs are vaccinated, and you hardly hear any of these dogs suffering from these diseases. That's because of vaccination only."

While issuing notice on the plea, the Bench directed the Respondent-authorities, including the Municipal Corporations, to apply their mind to all the issues raised by the Petitioner and come out with a clear and considered stand in their counter affidavit to be filed in within 6 weeks.

The matter will be taken up on November 3.

Case Title: Rahul Mohod v. GNCTD