The Supreme Court’s recent mandate to eliminate all stray dogs from the streets of Delhi-NCR within eight weeks has ignited discussions and worries. Actor
and dedicated animal rights supporter John Abraham has intervened and penned an urgent letter to the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, Justice B.R. Gavai, imploring the Court to rethink what he describes as a “misguided” and “inhumane” action.
John Abraham’s appeal to Chief Justice
In his correspondence, John expressed that these are not simply “strays,” but community dogs, intricately woven into the city’s culture and beloved by numerous residents. He stated, “I trust you will concur that these are not ‘strays’ but community dogs, valued and adored by many, and very much part of Delhi, having coexisted with humans in the area for generations.”
He also highlighted that the new regulation contradicts the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, which require sterilisation and vaccination, rather than relocation, as the only legal and scientifically sound approach for managing stray dog populations.
“The ABC Rules forbid the removal of dogs, instead requiring their sterilisation, vaccination, and return to their original habitats,” he wrote, referencing years of personal experience and international health guidelines, including WHO’s 1990 recommendation.
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The Dhoom actor also cited successful sterilisation initiatives in Jaipur and Lucknow, where over 70% and 84% of dogs have been sterilised. He emphasized how such programs diminish aggression and rabies threats, and how community dogs are essential in preventing unvaccinated newcomers, thus ensuring public safety. John also underscored the practical challenges and ethical implications of the Court's decision, referencing Delhi’s estimated 10 lakh (1 million) street dogs.
“It is neither practical nor humane to house or relocate them all. Removal merely invites unfamiliar, unsterilised, and unvaccinated dogs to take their place, resulting in heightened competition, territorial conflicts, and increased public health hazards," he wrote.
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John's plea to review or modify the directive
In closing his appeal, John urged for a reassessment and alteration of the ruling in favor of a compassionate, scientifically supported solution.
“I respectfully ask for a review and modification of this ruling in support of the lawful, humane, and effective ABC strategy, which protects public health while upholding the constitutional principles of compassion and coexistence, a position the Supreme Court has consistently endorsed since 2015.”
