Dogs rehabilitation: HC orders GHMC, MAUD to follow Animal Birth Control guidelines

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Tuesday directed the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the Municipal Administration & Urban Development (MAUD) Department to scrupulously adhere to the Animal Birth Control (ABC) guidelines mandated by the Supreme Court.

The petitioners sought a direction to immediately halt all ongoing capture and removal drives targeting community dogs in educational institutions, hospitals, sports stadiums, railway stations and bus depots.

The court was hearing a writ petition filed by the Association for Animal Shelter and Rescue Aid (AASRA), represented by its President Gowri Vandana and animal activist Syed Salim of PETA.

SC orders relocation to suitable rehabilitation centres only

Justice Bollam Vijaysen Reddy instructed the Chief Veterinary Officer to appear before the court on the next date of hearing through virtual mode. The judge clarified that this direction aims to ensure the effective implementation of the Supreme Court’s orders.

They argued that these drives violate the Supreme Court’s order dated November 7, which mandates that community dogs must be relocated only to suitable rehabilitation centres where they can receive proper care.

During the hearing, the court also permitted the petitioners to visit two additional Animal Birth Control (ABC) Centres and allowed them to carry mobile phones during these inspections.

Chief Veterinary Officer asked to appear before court

The matter has been posted for the next hearing, where the Chief Veterinary Officer’s virtual appearance is expected to assist the Court in monitoring adherence to the Supreme Court’s ABC framework.

The case has been adjourned for two weeks for are filing of a counter affidavit.