Punjab will act against stray dog menace under SC guidelines: CM Bhagwant Mann

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday said the state government would strictly implement the recent Supreme Court directives regarding the management of stray dogs in public spaces, amid rising concerns over dog bite incidents and public safety across the country.

The Punjab government will strictly follow in letter and spirit the Supreme Court order given on 19th May 2026. As per the SC orders, we will remove stray dogs from all high-footfall public spaces so that children, senior citizens and families can move freely without fearing for their safety. We will create and maintain an adequate number of dog shelters where these stray dogs can be cared for properly," read his tweet.

The announcement follows the Supreme Court’s May 19, 2026 order directing all states and Union Territories to immediately remove stray dogs from high-footfall public institutions such as schools, hospitals, sports complexes, railway stations and bus depots.

According to Mann, the Punjab government will begin removing stray dogs from crowded public areas to ensure the safety of children, senior citizens and families. He also said the state would establish and maintain proper dog shelters for relocated animals.

The Chief Minister stated that the government would act strictly within the legal framework laid down under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023.

Under the Supreme Court’s directions, stray dogs picked up from sensitive public spaces will be sterilised, vaccinated and shifted to shelters instead of being released back into the same areas. The court also permitted euthanasia only in cases involving confirmed rabid dogs, incurably ill animals or dogs found to be demonstrably dangerous.

Officials said the ruling marks a significant shift from earlier policies that allowed sterilised dogs to be released back into their original localities after vaccination.

The Supreme Court, while hearing suo motu proceedings related to rising dog attacks and rabies concerns, observed that public safety must remain a priority, particularly in areas frequently accessed by children and vulnerable groups.

The court has also directed authorities to create adequate shelter infrastructure and warned that High Courts would monitor implementation in respective states. Action may be initiated against civic bodies or officials found negligent in complying with the directives.

Punjab had earlier initiated efforts to manage stray dog populations through pilot projects, including the launch of a dog sanctuary model in Ludhiana in January 2026.

The latest announcement has triggered mixed reactions. While several residents and public safety groups welcomed the move, some animal welfare activists expressed concern over possible misuse or improper implementation of the policy.

The issue has reignited the national debate over balancing animal welfare with public safety amid increasing reports of stray dog attacks in urban areas.

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