The Supreme Court on Friday revised its earlier directive on stray dogs, stating that the animals can be released back after undergoing sterilisation and immunisation—except those found to be rabid or displaying aggressive behaviour. The decision comes in response to public outcry and criticism from animal welfare groups following the court’s previous order calling for the removal of all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR.

In a significant shift from its August 11 ruling, the court clarified that stray dogs will not be permanently relocated to shelter homes. However, it maintained a strict position on feeding practices, stating that feeding stray dogs on public streets will no longer be allowed.

"Those found feeding stray dogs on the streets shall be liable to action under the relevant legal framework," the bench said.

Instead, the court directed municipal bodies to establish designated feeding zones for stray dogs. Clear signboards will be placed at these sites to inform the public that feeding is permitted only in those specific areas.

The original directive, which gave authorities eight weeks to relocate all strays in Delhi-NCR to shelters, had sparked backlash and concern from dog lovers and NGOs. The case, which stems from a suo motu PIL over increasing dog bite incidents, was reassigned to a new three-judge bench after the widespread criticism.

The new bench, led by Justice Vikram Nath, took up the matter on August 14 and has since reserved its order on an interim plea seeking to pause the August 11 directions.

In a separate directive, the court asked individuals and NGOs involved in the case to deposit funds with the court registry—₹25,000 for individuals and ₹2 lakh for NGOs—within seven days. Failure to do so would result in their disqualification from participating in further proceedings.

"The funds collected will be used to create infrastructure and facilities for stray dogs under the supervision of local municipal bodies," the bench said, according to a PTI report.

The court has also issued notices to all states and Union Territories, asking them to present suggestions for drafting a national policy on managing stray dog populations.