Supreme Court to Issue Guidelines on Feeding Stray Dogs in Government Premises
On November 7, the Supreme Court will set rules regarding the feeding of stray dogs within government office areas.
Background of the Case
During a hearing on November 3, 2025, the Court addressed concerns over government employees feeding stray dogs inside their workplaces.
Judicial Observations
“We will be issuing directions with respect to government institutions and public sector undertakings where employees are feeding the dogs, and supporting and encouraging stray dogs in the area.”
— Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria
The Bench strongly noted that such behavior defied prior orders requiring specific feeding zones for stray dogs to be established.
Proceedings and Future Hearings
When some intervenors requested a hearing before the Court issued instructions, Justice Nath responded:
“For institutional matters, we are not going to hear any averment at all.”
However, the Court clarified it would listen to all parties after issuing the interim directions.
Concerns About Feeding Zone Demarcation
Senior advocate Karuna Nundy highlighted reported irregularities in how Delhi local authorities have delineated feeding zones for stray dogs.
“We are not closing the matter. We will hear you.”
— Justice Vikram Nath
Next Steps
- The Court has scheduled further examination of grievances related to feeding zones in the upcoming hearing on November 7.
Author’s summary: The Supreme Court will soon issue clear guidelines to stop government staff from feeding stray dogs indiscriminately while reviewing complaints about existing feeding zone enforcement.