New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday declined to urgently list a plea that sought action over alleged comments made by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann concerning the court’s recent directions in the stray dogs matter.
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected the oral mention of the case after the petitioner’s counsel claimed that the Chief Minister had publicly interpreted the apex court’s order as giving permission to eliminate stray dogs.
The lawyer argued that following the Supreme Court’s May 19 judgment on stray animals, the Punjab Chief Minister had allegedly posted on social media suggesting that the ruling amounted to a “free hand” for culling stray dogs. It was further submitted that incidents of stray dog killings were being reported in some areas after the order.
However, the bench appeared unconvinced and questioned whether such statements could form the basis for reopening or modifying a judicial decision. The judges observed that remarks made by political leaders or public representatives do not automatically justify intervention by the Supreme Court.
When the counsel insisted on urgent listing, the court refused, stating that the matter did not warrant immediate consideration and advised the petitioner to approach the Punjab and Haryana High Court instead.
The petitioner’s side maintained that the situation on the ground was deteriorating and alleged that the implementation of the ruling was resulting in the killing of stray dogs in certain locations.
In its earlier order dated May 19, the Supreme Court had permitted euthanasia only in specific cases involving rabid, incurably ill, or highly aggressive stray dogs, while stressing that public safety remains a priority when weighed against animal welfare concerns.
The court had also directed all states and Union Territories to improve infrastructure for managing stray animal populations and instructed high courts to ensure compliance with earlier guidelines issued in August and November 2025.
The issue continues to draw attention nationwide, with ongoing debate over how to balance public safety with the humane treatment of animals.
