India's stray dog crisis is a multifaceted issue fueled by public fear, inadequate governance, and a complex interplay of socio-economic factors. While dog bites are a tangible concern, the roots of the problem extend far beyond individual incidents, demanding a comprehensive and humane approach.
The fear of stray dogs, often stoked by media reports of attacks, is a significant driver of the crisis. Sensationalized coverage can lead to public panic and calls for drastic measures, such as mass culling or relocation. This fear is understandable, given the very real risk of dog bites and the prevalence of rabies in India, which accounts for 36% of all rabies deaths in the world. Instances of stray dogs attacking and even killing children, though relatively rare, generate widespread outrage and contribute to the perception of stray dogs as a menace.
However, reacting solely with fear obscures the underlying systemic issues. Poor waste management, for instance, is a major factor contributing to the stray dog population. Open garbage dumps provide a readily available food source, allowing stray dogs to thrive and reproduce. A lack of effective animal birth control (ABC) programs further exacerbates the problem. Although ABC rules exist, their implementation is often weak, resulting in unchecked breeding and a burgeoning stray dog population.
Governance plays a crucial role in addressing the stray dog crisis, and unfortunately, it often falls short. Many municipalities lack the resources, infrastructure, and political will to implement effective ABC programs and enforce responsible pet ownership. Animal shelters are often overcrowded and underfunded, making it difficult to provide adequate care for stray animals. In some cases, local authorities have even resorted to illegal mass killings of stray dogs in response to public pressure, a practice that has sparked outrage from animal welfare activists.
The Supreme Court of India has taken note of the growing crisis, directing state governments and union territories to identify government institutions and ensure these premises are adequately fenced to prevent the entry of stray dogs. In August 2025, the Supreme Court ordered the immediate removal of thousands of stray dogs from the Delhi capital region, ordering that the dogs be captured, sterilized, vaccinated and relocated to newly built shelters. Agartala Municipal Corporation also plans to relocate over 1,200 stray dogs to shelter homes, aligning with Supreme Court directives. The court has also stated that it will impose heavy compensation on authorities who fail to implement ABC rules and pulled up dog feeders, saying they would be liable for attacks that have a lifelong impact on victims.
Addressing India's stray dog crisis requires a multi-pronged strategy that goes beyond reactive measures. Effective implementation of ABC programs is paramount, along with improved waste management practices to reduce food sources for stray dogs. Public education is also essential to dispel myths and promote responsible pet ownership, including registration and vaccination. Collaboration between government agencies, animal welfare organizations, and local communities is crucial to develop and implement sustainable solutions. Ultimately, a humane and compassionate approach that prioritizes both public safety and animal welfare is the only way to resolve this complex issue.
