Delhi's New Guidelines for Humane Street Dog Management

The Delhi Department of Urban Development has unveiled comprehensive guidelines aimed at managing the street dog population, eradicating rabies, and reducing human-dog conflict. This initiative follows directives from the Supreme Court of India.

Announced on Monday, the guidelines were shared with key municipal officers, including the Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and chiefs of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and Delhi Cantonment Board (DCB). The directives align with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the revised Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.

The guidelines mandate that local authorities work exclusively with Animal Welfare Organisations recognised by the AWBI. Veterinarians and handlers must undergo certified training, and all programmes require certification from the Board. Measures to ensure proper care include sufficient infrastructure at sterilisation centres and CCTV monitoring. Feeding locations must be adequately maintained, with public education campaigns also being rolled out.