The govt has initiated awareness campaigns, vaccination drives against rabies, sterilisation and castration of stray dogs, and efforts to house them in shelters where practicable, in order to segregate them from human populations. Registration of pet dogs is also under way
SHILLONG, Aug 6: The High Court of Meghalaya has expressed satisfaction with the actions taken by the government to address the menace of stray dogs in the state.
The issue of stray dogs had become a growing concern for residents, prompting the High Court to admit a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking directions to the authorities for effective prevention and control.
The PIL has been heard periodically, with the Court issuing several orders and seeking reports from the authorities to ensure proper implementation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, read with the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001.
At the previous hearing, Additional Advocate General T Yangi submitted that committees under Rule 4 of the said rules had been constituted in all districts except South Garo Hills and West Jaintia Hills. The Division Bench comprising Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh recorded this in their order.
“We are happy to note from the report filed in Court today that substantial action has been taken by the government in relation to the menace of stray dogs. The committees under Rule 4 of the said rules have now been constituted in the remaining two districts — South Garo Hills and West Jaintia Hills,” the bench observed.
The report and submissions further revealed that the government has initiated awareness campaigns, vaccination drives against rabies, sterilisation and castration of stray dogs, and efforts to house them in shelters where practicable, in order to segregate them from human populations. Additionally, registration of pet dogs is also under way.
On a submission made by Paul, who is appearing in person, the Court directed that he may file an affidavit in response to the government’s report. The court said that the affidavit may be submitted by August 25, 2025, after which it will be in a position to hear and dispose of the PIL.