New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday adopted a firm stance on the growing incidents of stray dog attacks across the country, indicating that state governments may now be directed to pay “heavy compensation” to victims of dog bite cases.
A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta and Justice N V Anjaria expressed deep concern over the failure of governments to effectively implement rules relating to stray animals over the past five years.
The court made it clear that if a stray dog injures a child or an elderly person, or if such an incident leads to death, the direct responsibility will lie with the state government, as it has failed to enforce public safety regulations.
The bench also brought dog feeders and animal lovers under scrutiny. Making strong observations, the court said that feeders would also be held accountable if a dog they regularly feed attacks someone.
Justice Nath questioned the rationale behind feeding stray dogs on the streets, asking, “If you love these animals so much, why don’t you take them into your homes? Why are these dogs being left to roam the streets, frightening people and biting them?”
The Supreme Court was hearing petitions seeking modification of its November 7, 2025 order, which had directed authorities to remove stray animals from institutional areas and public roads.
The matter remains under consideration.
