The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed surprise over the unusually high number of interlocutory applications filed in the ongoing stray dogs case, remarking that even human-related cases rarely see such filings. The bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, made the observation while lawyers mentioned the matter before the court.

A three-judge bench, including Justice N V Anjaria, is scheduled to hear the case on Wednesday. The top court noted that multiple pleas, including transfer petitions and other applications, will be taken up for consolidated hearing, reflecting the gravity of the issue and the legal complexities involved.

The apex court is addressing a suo motu case initiated on July 28, 2025, following media reports highlighting a rise in stray dog bites, particularly among children in Delhi, leading to rabies infections. The court expressed concern over repeated incidents of dog bites in institutional areas such as schools, hospitals, sports complexes, and railway stations.

Also Read: Delhi Police FIR Targets Fake News on Teachers Counting Stray Dogs

In November last year, the SC directed authorities to relocate stray dogs to designated shelters after sterilisation and vaccination, emphasizing that the animals should not be released back to the areas they were removed from. The court also instructed the removal of all stray cattle and animals from national and state highways, expressing alarm at the systemic failures in ensuring public safety.

The bench observed that recurring dog bite incidents reflect both administrative apathy and systemic lapses in securing public spaces from preventable hazards. It highlighted the importance of proactive measures to safeguard citizens, especially children, from preventable risks posed by stray animals.

The matter has drawn attention across states, and the SC’s upcoming hearing is expected to reinforce implementation of its earlier directions while reviewing compliance, underscoring the court’s commitment to public safety in institutional and public spaces.

Also Read: Delhi Schools Told to Appoint Nodal Officers for Stray Dogs