In a significant directive, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has instructed the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) to launch an immediate and high-priority campaign to clear stray dogs from the city's prominent public spaces. The order specifically highlights major tourist hubs like Chhappan Dukan and Sarafa.
Court's Directives and Strict Deadline
A division bench comprising Justices Vijay Kumar Shukla and Binod Kumar Dwivedi issued these instructions while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). The bench mandated the civic body to identify key public and tourist locations and execute the removal drive as a matter of utmost urgency.
The court has set a firm deadline for compliance. The IMC Commissioner must convene a meeting of concerned officers within ten days to formulate a concrete action plan. Furthermore, the corporation is required to submit a comprehensive action-taken report to the court by January 13, 2026. This report must include detailed data on the sterilization of stray dogs captured during the drive.
Legal Background and Supreme Court Mandate
The High Court's order aligns with a recent verdict from the Supreme Court. On November 7, the apex court, taking suo motu cognizance of a six-year-old girl's death from rabies, had directed the immediate relocation of stray dogs to designated shelters after sterilization and vaccination. Crucially, the Supreme Court ordered that these dogs should not be released back into the areas from which they were taken.
The PIL initially sought the removal of livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats, from city limits to protect greenery. However, the issue of the growing stray dog menace was also raised during the proceedings. Advocates representing intervenors argued that stray dogs pose a persistent threat across Indore, with numerous dog-bite incidents being reported.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The High Court has issued a stern warning to ensure its directives are followed. The bench explicitly stated that if the action report submitted in 2026 is found to be unsatisfactory or if there is evident inaction, it may order the personal appearance of the Commissioner of the Indore Municipal Corporation before the court.
During the hearing on December 19, the state government's advocate informed the court that the corporation was already engaged in drives concerning stray cattle and dogs and that regular updates were provided. However, the court emphasized strict adherence to both its earlier directions and the Supreme Court's November orders, underscoring the gravity of the public safety and health issue.
