The Supreme Court of India has warned that states may face heavy compensation in dog bite cases.
The bench, comprising Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sandeep Mehta, and Justice NV Anjaria, declared that civic authorities and individuals who feed stray dogs could be held strictly liable for injuries or deaths caused by dog attacks.
The Court monitored compliance with earlier orders and, at the same time, directed the removal of stray dogs from public institutions. Moreover, it stressed the importance of sterilisation and vaccination programs. Expressing concern over the rising number of dog bite incidents, the bench criticised municipal authorities for failing to act effectively.
Furthermore, the judges remarked that those concerned about stray dogs should adopt them instead of allowing them to roam freely and endanger public safety. Consequently, the Court signalled its intention to impose heavy compensation on states in cases of dog bites, deaths, or injuries. It also made clear that feeders would face accountability for such incidents.
In addition, the bench highlighted broader social issues. It questioned why incentives focus on adopting stray dogs rather than orphaned children living on the streets. The judges noted that arguments in court often represent dog lovers, while human victims of dog attacks receive insufficient advocacy.
During the hearing, the bench emphasised that dog bites can have lifelong effects. As a result, the judges asked who should bear responsibility when a child dies after being attacked by dogs fed by a particular organisation. Finally, the Court reiterated its plan to fix strict liability and heavy compensation for states, while ensuring feeders face accountability for damages.
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