Nagpur High Court Examines NMC's Measures Against Stray Dogs
The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court conducted a thorough examination of an affidavit presented by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) on Wednesday. The scrutiny aimed to assess the NMC's adherence to previous court directives related to the management of the city's stray dog population in accordance with the Animal Birth Control Rules.
During the proceedings, the NMC informed the court that it had initiated the process by issuing work orders and entering into agreements with specific agencies responsible for implementing the Animal Birth Control Rules. In response to the court's inquiry about immediate measures to address the issue of stray dogs effectively, the NMC's legal representative underscored their commitment to following the prescribed rules and highlighted the work orders issued to this end.
However, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of progress, suggesting that while sterilization efforts were crucial for long-term results, it might take several years to see substantial effects. The court also expressed concerns about the rising incidents of dog bites in the city. Advocate Firdos Mirza, representing the petitioners, pointed out statutory provisions that call for swift action in curbing the stray dog menace, particularly in cases of dog bites. Mirza emphasized that both the NMC and the police have specific powers and responsibilities under the applicable laws to handle immediate incidents and mishaps.
The NMC's response centered on the Animal Birth Control Rules, which primarily focus on sterilization and the return of stray dogs to their original locations. The court stressed that as a civic body, the NMC is legally obligated and empowered to take appropriate action and provide shelters for stray dogs.
Regarding the current shelter, Adv. Sudhir Puranik, representing the NMC, identified the Bhandewadi Shelter as the designated facility for such activities. The court requested further information on the capacity of both public and private shelters and adjourned the matter until October 5. The NMC was instructed to provide details on the feasibility of expanding the Bhandewadi Shelter to accommodate a larger number of stray dogs.
In a separate development, Ankita Shah, counsel for the intervenor, informed the court that she had filed an affidavit, complying with earlier court orders, tendering her unconditional apology. The court scheduled further deliberation on this matter for October 5.
Advocate Firdos Mirza represented the petitioners, Adv. Sudhir Puranik represented the NMC, and Adv. Ashwin Deshpande along with Adv. Aradhya Pande appeared for Dhantoli Nagrik Mandal. Adv. S. S. Sanyal represented an NGO Federation.
