Maharashtra has ordered urban local bodies to stop releasing sterilised and vaccinated stray dogs near schools, hospitals, and airports, citing public safety. The directive, issued via a Government Resolution (GR), also mandates designated feeding zones and complaint helplines.
New rules for stray dog management
The Urban Development Department’s order aligns with Supreme Court directives on stray dog control. It requires municipal corporations, councils, and nagar panchayats to enforce the court’s rulings without exception.
Key measures include capturing stray dogs for sterilisation, vaccination, and deworming, as well as establishing shelters. Civic bodies must also identify feeding zones and set up helplines for public complaints. The order specifies that sterilised dogs cannot be released in protected areas like schools, hospitals, or airports.
Euthanasia and public safety provisions
Rabid, terminally ill, or extremely aggressive dogs may be euthanised after veterinary consultation, in compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023. The order also extends restrictions to crowded public spaces, including bus stands, railway stations, and sports complexes.
Authorities must ensure adequate anti-rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin stocks at public health facilities. Coordination with the National Highways Authority of India is required to address stray animals on highways, per court instructions.
Legal protections and accountability
Officials implementing the order in good faith are shielded from legal action, though this protection does not apply to mala fide acts or violations of court orders. Repeated non-compliance may result in contempt of court proceedings.
The resolution consolidates directives on stray dog control, public safety, and legal accountability, requiring strict adherence from all urban local bodies in Maharashtra.
