It’s been a while since cruelty to animals has been at the center of a heated debate. A two judge bench of the Supreme Court had on Monday ordered the relocation of all stray dogs, in Delhi, to shelters. The judges had taken up the issue, suo moto, based on newspaper reports about dog attacks on children. The decision has brought to focus many debated issues. The issue of urban spaces, and the inclusion of plant and animal life beyond ornamental presence. The issue of human animal conflict within urban spaces. Prevention of cruelty to animals, as a constitutional value. Ensuring safe neighbourhood and play spaces for children, especially when limited designated play areas are available. The role of stray dogs as community pets. The huge logistical challenges involved. Each of these issues have been debated for decades, and the Supreme Court suddenly giving an abrupt judgement, without sufficient input or consultation, is extreme and dogmatic. There’s been a backlash from animal lovers and celebrities, forcing the court to refer the issue to a larger bench. These are issues, which cannot have quick fixes and structural changes to urban planning and development need to be addressed. Delhi over the last few decades has become a vast conglomeration of unauthorized colonies and slums. The abject failure of town planning and implementation, has led to 70% of the city’s population now living in these unplanned spaces, without any civic amenities. The problem of children safety cannot be solved by sequestration of dogs alone. The Supreme Court needs to take a more nuanced approach.
No judicial quick fix for child safety
