In a shocking revelation that exposes administrative apathy, not a single dog bite victim in Panchkula has received financial compensation despite clear directions from the Punjab and Haryana High Court two years ago. Official records reveal a complete breakdown in the system meant to provide relief to victims suffering from animal attacks.
Administrative Failure Exposed
Municipal Corporation records accessed by Times of India show that 31 victims filed compensation claims between the time of the High Court order and June 2025. Yet, none of these applicants have received any financial relief. Officials privately admit the actual number could be significantly higher, as many victims reportedly approached the district administration separately without filing formal complaints.
The situation highlights a systemic failure where victims remain unaware of their rights and the mandated compensation process. Many potential applicants never even filed complaints due to the complete absence of guidelines and public awareness about the committee that was supposed to be formed.
Officials in the Dark
When questioned about the delay in implementing the court's directions, District Commissioner Satpal Sharma displayed alarming uncertainty about the entire process. "I will have to check whether a committee was formed and what the status is," Sharma stated, reflecting the administrative confusion surrounding the compensation mechanism.
MC councillor Suneet Singla, who chairs the dog and cow welfare committee, confirmed the grim reality. "No compensation has been paid to any victim despite the High Court's clear directions that should have been implemented immediately," Singla revealed. He squarely blamed the administration for the suffering of victims, noting that "no committee was constituted, nor were guidelines issued" as required.
Rising Cases, Zero Infrastructure
The compensation failure comes against the backdrop of rapidly increasing dog bite cases in Panchkula. Official data shows alarming numbers: 4,543 cases in 2023, followed by 5,337 cases in 2024, and already 3,907 cases reported till September 2025.
Meanwhile, the city has failed to implement basic infrastructure mandated under Supreme Court guidelines for stray animal control. No designated dog-feeding points have been established, and aggressive dogs haven't been captured systematically, creating a dangerous environment for residents.
Currently, victims must navigate an informal application process, submitting only written applications with medical records and Aadhaar details since no prescribed form exists. This ad-hoc arrangement further complicates an already broken system, leaving victims without the financial support they desperately need for medical treatment and recovery.
