On August 22, 2025, the Supreme Court softened its controversial August 11 order regarding stray dogs in Delhi-NCR, which previously mandated full removal and sheltering. In a revised ruling, the court now allows sterilised and vaccinated community dogs to return to their original spaces, aligning the directive more closely with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules. However, dogs diagnosed with rabies or those showing aggressive behavior remain excluded from release.

This change responds to widespread criticism from animal welfare experts, who argued that forced removal violates humane practice, disrupts ecosystems, and contradicts legal frameworks requiring dog rehabilitation back into communities. The August 11 order had caused logistical nightmares and protests, with many calling it “mission impossible” due to infrastructure and manpower shortages. Critics cited the shift away from the proven ABC model sterilise, vaccinate, and release as impractical and inhumane.

By restoring release policies except for high-risk cases the court seeks a more balanced approach, reconciling public safety concerns with legal mandates and animal welfare priorities. Still, effective implementation will hinge on robust shelters, monitoring, and capacity-building.