Following the Supreme Court's modification of its order regarding stray dogs in Delhi-NCR, actor and animal rights advocate John Abraham has expressed his gratitude. The court's revised directive stipulates that stray dogs, after sterilization and vaccination, should be released back into their original localities, except for those infected with rabies or displaying aggressive behavior, which will be confined separately.
Abraham, a long-time supporter of animal welfare, conveyed his sentiments in a note, stating, "On behalf of dogs, I am thankful to the Supreme Court for ruling, in essence, that there must be peaceful coexistence and that dogs must not be removed from roads".
This reaction comes after the Supreme Court's initial order on August 11, 2025, which mandated the removal of all stray dogs from Delhi-NCR to shelters, a decision that sparked considerable backlash from animal lovers and advocates. The court's recent modification addresses concerns raised about the practicality and potential harm to community dogs.
Abraham had previously voiced his concerns directly to the Chief Justice of India, Justice B.R. Gavai, urging a review of the initial order. In his letter, he argued that the dogs are not merely strays but "community dogs," well-integrated into Delhi society for generations. He also highlighted the importance of sterilization and vaccination programs, citing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, and the World Health Organization's guidelines, as scientifically sound and humane approaches.
The actor has been a consistent voice for animal rights, lending his support to various campaigns and organizations. He has actively promoted kindness towards animals and advocated for stronger animal protection laws. In a recent campaign with Mercy For Animals India, Abraham emphasized the importance of treating animals with love, respect, and freedom. He has also supported organizations like Animal Matter To Me (AMTM) India, even donating his Maruti Gypsy to the NGO for their rescue operations. Abraham's advocacy extends beyond domestic animals; he has also spoken out against the abuse of elephants in events like the Chitwan Elephant Festival in Nepal, urging the government to adopt ethical wildlife tourism initiatives.
The Supreme Court's modified order also addresses the issue of feeding stray dogs, prohibiting public feeding and directing municipal authorities to designate specific feeding zones in each ward. This measure aims to regulate the practice of feeding stray dogs in public places, which has reportedly caused difficulties for pedestrians. The court has further expanded the scope of the case, impleading all states and Union Territories and transferring related cases from various High Courts to the Supreme Court for a comprehensive national policy.
Animal rights groups and shelter operators have largely welcomed the Supreme Court's revised decision, viewing it as a positive step for stray dog welfare and those dedicated to their care. The emphasis on sterilization and vaccination aligns with the widely accepted approach to managing stray dog populations humanely and effectively.
