Shimla
The increasing number of stray dogs and monkeys in the state, as well as instances of their biting, has drawn the attention of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. The division bench has asked the petitioners’ attorneys for recommendations on a system that would help rehabilitate dogs and monkeys, similar to a cattle pound (animal shelter), with the assistance of non-governmental organizations. The High Court has ordered an affidavit about the census survey of dogs and monkeys and has requested clarification on whether an urban dog-monkey population census has been conducted.
A proposal concerning dogs is being considered, according to an affidavit submitted on behalf of the Municipal Corporation, Dharamshala, during the hearing. The case was heard by a divided bench consisting of Justice Ranjan Sharma and Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia. The case’s next hearing is scheduled on September 8.
Concerned about the increasing threat of stray dogs and monkeys in the state’s cities and towns, the High Court issued a comprehensive order on September 10, 2024. This prompted the Central Government to reevaluate the Animal Birth Control Rules 2023 clause. As a result, it is now required that the animals be returned to their original location following sterilization. The court had explicitly stated that there is a significant risk of these animals attacking people who live in urban areas, schools, and market areas where young children and the elderly reside.
It might be risky in these circumstances to return sterilized animals to their original locations. The court had ordered that the rules governing the release of animals be changed to exclude, at the very least, the urban area and the vicinity of marketplaces and schools. We would like to inform you that incidents of dog and monkey assaults in Shimla city occur daily in the following locations: Chhota Shimla, High Court, Jakhu, Sanjauli, Cemetery, Dhali Chowk, Lakkad Bazaar, Mall Road, Summerhill, Vikasnagar, and IGMC Shimla. It has become extremely difficult for women, school-age children, and the elderly to leave their houses because of their dread of dogs and monkeys.
