In Uttar Pradesh, the rising number of stray dog attacks has prompted authorities to implement stricter measures to ensure public safety and manage the stray dog population. The state government has issued new guidelines that include a provision for the lifetime detention of stray dogs who have been recorded to have bitten two or more people.
The decision comes amid increasing public concern over the menace of stray dogs in the state. Recent data indicates a surge in dog bite cases across Uttar Pradesh. In 2024, cities like Meerut, Amroha, Moradabad, Pilibhit and Ballia reported tens of thousands of cases. Lucknow, the state capital, saw over 4,000 people receiving anti-rabies injections in June 2024 alone, with children comprising over 30% of the victims. Across Uttar Pradesh, it's estimated that more than 10,000 people are affected by stray dog bites daily. Compounding the issue, residential societies are increasingly becoming habitats for stray dog packs, leading to more human-animal conflict.
Under the new guidelines, if a stray dog bites someone and the victim receives treatment and rabies vaccination at a government hospital, the dog will be taken to an Animal Birth Control (ABC) center for 10 days. Municipal bodies have been directed to ensure that all dogs involved in biting incidents are microchipped before being released. This measure aims to help track the dog's history and identify repeat offenders. A detailed record of each biting incident, along with the dog's health information, must be maintained at the ABC center. If a dog is involved in another unprovoked attack, it will be permanently kept at the ABC center.
The Uttar Pradesh government's updated circular includes several measures for stray dog management. The state's Urban Development Department has formalized designated feeding zones, strengthened Animal Birth Control (ABC) programs, and established local conflict-resolution mechanisms. Municipal corporations and local bodies are required to identify feeding zones in every ward, away from areas frequented by children, senior citizens, and schools. Feeding outside these designated zones is prohibited, with strict actions against violators. The state government will also organize regular sterilization and anti-rabies vaccination camps in collaboration with animal welfare organizations and veterinarians, prioritizing high-risk areas.
The initiative also encourages the adoption of stray dogs, with individuals and NGOs able to apply for adoption. However, adopters are prohibited from abandoning the animals. The government plans to conduct public awareness campaigns through various channels, including schools, social media, and posters, and will recognize local bodies, NGOs, or individuals excelling in stray dog management. A dedicated helpline number will be available for reporting concerns.
These measures are aligned with the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2023, and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The goal is to strike a balance between public safety and the humane treatment of animals. The state government has made it mandatory to register pet dogs with local authorities, including details about their breed, age, and vaccination status, and has specified fines for non-compliance. Collaboration with Animal Welfare Organizations (AWOs), the Animal Welfare Board of India, and NGOs is also required, with monitoring committees established in each urban body to handle complaints and provide oversight.
