Punjab to implement SC order on stray dogs: CM Mann

Chandigarh: Citing "growing concern" over stray dog attacks in several parts of Punjab, chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday said the Punjab govt will implement the Supreme Court's directions on stray dogs in true letter and spirit, while ensuring both public safety and humane care for animals.Mann said an adequate number of dog shelters will be created and legally permissible measures, including euthanasia, in cases involving rabid, incurably ill or demonstrably dangerous and aggressive dogs, will be taken.Stressing that children, senior citizens and families must be able to move freely in public spaces without fear, Mann announced that stray dogs will be shifted from high-footfall areas and adequate shelters will be created and maintained for their proper care, reaffirming the Punjab govt's commitment towards protecting both human lives and animal welfare.Referring to the directions issued by the apex court on May 19, Mann said the Punjab govt has already issued necessary directions to ensure strict compliance with the orders across the state. "As per the Supreme Court's directions, stray dogs will be removed from all high-footfall public spaces so that children, senior citizens and families can move freely without fear for their safety," he added.Mann said the Punjab govt will create and maintain an adequate number of dog shelters where stray dogs can be properly cared for. He affirmed that the govt is committed to addressing the issue in a humane and legally compliant manner while simultaneously safeguarding public safety.He added, "Legally permissible measures, including euthanasia, in cases involving rabid, incurably ill or demonstrably dangerous and aggressive dogs posing a threat to human life, will be ensured strictly in accordance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the ABC Rules."Mann said, "The move will provide major relief to people across Punjab, as the growing stray dog menace has emerged as a grave threat to human life. Incidents involving stray dog attacks have caused widespread concern among citizens, making it necessary for the Punjab govt to act decisively on the issue."Taking to X, CM Mann stated: "Punjab govt will strictly follow in letter and spirit the Supreme Court order given on May 19, 2026. As per the SC orders, we will:- Remove stray dogs from all high-footfall public spaces so that children, senior citizens and families can move freely without fearing for their safety.- We will create and maintain an adequate number of dog shelters where these stray dogs can be cared for properly.- Take legally permissible measures, including euthanasia, in cases involving rabid, incurably ill or demonstrably dangerous and aggressive dogs posing a threat to human life, strictly in accordance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the ABC Rules."