New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) has decided to examine the Delhi stray dogs case, raising hopes for a more humane and legally balanced resolution. This development could impact the August 11 order, which was widely criticised for being one-sided against the stray dog population.
The move follows a lawyer’s submission citing an earlier Supreme Court ruling from May 2024 by Justice Maheshwari, which declared that harassing any living being is unconstitutional. The ruling also prohibited killing animals without due process and mandated proper facilities for relocation. The contradiction between the May judgment and the August order has opened the door for the case to be reconsidered.
Possibility of Case Reopening
With this legal conflict highlighted, there is now a strong possibility that the matter will be relisted for consideration. Delhi residents and animal rights activists, who have been protesting against the August order, see this as a chance for justice for both people and animals.
Concerns Over Judicial Bias
The situation has also sparked debate over judicial impartiality. Observers point out that two judges have delivered starkly opposite decisions within months, raising questions about potential unconscious bias. Critics argue that personal perspectives—such as a judge’s own experience with pets—can sometimes influence rulings, despite the expectation of complete neutrality.
Call for Humane, Practical Solutions
Activists emphasise that stray dog management must follow due process, as seen in many other countries. Relocation centres must be adequately equipped before shifting large numbers of animals, ensuring both public safety and animal welfare.
With the CJI’s intervention, the coming weeks could prove decisive for the future of stray dog policy in Delhi.
