The Supreme Court of India has taken significant steps regarding animal welfare and infrastructure development in a landmark hearing on Thursday. A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N V Anjaria reserved its order on the crucial implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules by various states to address the persistent issue of stray dogs across the nation.
Key Developments in Stray Dog Management
In addition to the ABC Rules, the apex court also considered a plea from dog lovers who are seeking a rollback of its previous directive to remove stray dogs from the premises of essential institutions such as hospitals, colleges, and other educational facilities. This dual focus highlights the court's balanced approach to animal welfare and public safety concerns.
Directions to Animal Welfare Board of India
The bench issued clear instructions to the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), emphasizing the need for timely processing of applications from local organizations. These groups are seeking recognition to carry out vital animal welfare programs, including sterilization efforts aimed at controlling the stray dog population. The court stated, "The only request to AWBI is whatever applications are pending, you must process them with expedience. Either you reject them within a specified time or grant them," underscoring the urgency of efficient administrative action.
NHAI's Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative
In a notable expansion of the hearing's scope, the Supreme Court bench directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to consider a unique proposal. It asked NHAI to explore the possibility of requiring concessionaires involved in road construction projects to establish gaushalas (cowsheds) as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations. This move aims to integrate animal welfare into infrastructure development, reflecting a holistic approach to national progress.
Broader Implications for Animal Welfare
The court's deliberations signal a proactive stance on managing stray animals while promoting compassionate practices. By reserving the order on the ABC Rules, the judiciary is poised to deliver a structured framework that could enhance coordination between state governments, local bodies, and animal welfare organizations. The emphasis on CSR for cow sheds further aligns with cultural values and sustainable development goals.
As the Supreme Court prepares its final order, stakeholders from animal rights groups to public institutions await clarity on the implementation mechanisms. This hearing underscores the ongoing efforts to balance humanitarian concerns with practical solutions in India's evolving landscape of animal welfare and urban management.
