Thiruvananthapuram, June 2025 – A growing number of stray dog attacks in Nedumangad, Thiruvananthapuram, has led law student Keerthana Sarin to file a petition with the Kerala High Court, calling for immediate action from state authorities.
As she returned home on May 30, Keerthana was ambushed and injured by a group of stray dogs. She sustained a bite during the incident. Within a week, three to four more similar attacks were reported in the same area, sparking widespread concern among locals. Residents claim repeated complaints to local authorities have gone unaddressed.
In her plea, Sarin submitted that the court issue directions to the Kerala government for the constitution of local Animal Birth Control Committees, as statutorily required under Rule 24 of the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001. These committees are tasked with overseeing humane measures such as sterilization, vaccination, and rehabilitation of stray dogs.
She emphasized that effective enforcement of these rules is essential to protect both public safety and animal welfare. The case calls attention to the necessity of integrated efforts between civic departments, animal protection organizations, and localities to control and care for stray dogs humanely.
The case was heard by a bench led by Justice C. S. Dias, who has directed the state government to submit its response. Deliberations will continue on June 17, 2025. Sarin’s legal challenge has sparked a broader conversation about the effectiveness of current stray dog management practices not only in Kerala but across India. Despite clear directives under national guidelines, reports suggest inconsistent implementation at the local level—leading to increased aggression among unvaccinated strays and a rise in human-animal conflict.
The Animal Birth Control Rules, 2001, explicitly prohibit the killing or relocation of stray dogs without sterilization or vaccination. However, experts argue that enforcement remains weak due to lack of awareness, funding, and interdepartmental coordination. This case could serve as a landmark decision, setting a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues. As stray dog attacks continue to rise nationwide, there is mounting pressure on policymakers to adopt structured, sustainable, and humane strategies for animal control.
The judgment will be closely watched by animal rights activists, civic officials, and citizens alike, as it may influence future policy reforms related to stray animal management, community safety, and urban coexistence.
