Jaipur, August 11, 2025 — In a decisive step to address the escalating threat posed by stray animals on public roads, the Rajasthan High Court has ordered municipal bodies across key cities to launch a special drive to remove stray dogs and other animals. The state-wide action aims to enhance road safety and protect public health, while ensuring animal welfare.
Judicial Action Amid a Worsening Crisis
The Division Bench, consisting of Justice Kuldeep Mathur and Justice Ravi Chirania, issued the directive after taking suo motu cognizance of media reports on rising dog bite incidents and road accidents caused by stray dogs, cows, goats, camels, and other animals on both urban roads and national highways.
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Dog bite cases in Rajasthan have increased from 88,029 in 2022 to 140,543 in 2024, with 15,062 recorded in January 2025 alone, the court cited data from the Health Ministry. These troubling numbers suggest underreporting may mask an even deeper crisis.
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What the High Court Directed
In its comprehensive order, the High Court laid out several immediate measures:
Special Removal Drive: Municipal corporations in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur must conduct targeted drives to clear stray animals from roads and public lanes, ensuring minimum physical harm to the animals.
Bar and Bench – Indian Legal newsEmpower Officials: Officials are authorized to take strong action, including registering FIRs against anyone obstructing their duties.
Bar and Bench – Indian Legal newsPublic Feedback Channels: Municipal bodies must establish and publicize helplines — via phone, email, or mobile — where citizens can report instances of stray animal encroachment.
Bar and Bench – Indian Legal newsDesignated Feeding Areas: Those wishing to feed or care for animals should do so at shelters, Gaushalas, or designated zones maintained by municipalities or NGOs, not on open roads.
Bar and Bench – Indian Legal newsHighway Patrols: Leaders of the National and State Highways Authorities are required to regularly patrol and clear highways of stray animals to maintain free vehicular movement.
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Root Causes: Stray Animal Menace & Legislative Gap
The court emphasized that the root of the problem lies in irresponsible pet ownership, abandonment of animals, and weak enforcement of existing laws. Although the Rajasthan Road Safety Bill, 2022 has been suggested, it is still unknown if it will be passed and put into effect.
“In Rajasthan, dogs and cows, once cared for as pets or sacred animals, have surged in numbers on public roads due to neglect,” the court stated, noting that such unchecked growth threatens public safety.
Expert Oversight & Future Hearing
Recognizing the issue requires legal and technical guidance, the High Court appointed Senior Advocate Dr. Sachin Acharya, along with advocates Priyanka Borana and Heli Pathak as Amicus Curiae to assist in framing long-term solutions.
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The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 8, requesting detailed reports from municipal bodies on the status of shelters, manpower, and steps taken.
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Broader Public and Government Response
The Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority has been tasked with formalizing the appointment of the Amicus Curiae and arranging their remuneration, reflecting the court’s seriousness in ensuring accountability.
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On the administrative front, authorities will now face public scrutiny to enforce existing safety laws, expand shelter capacity, and engage in community education about responsible animal care. Failure to comply may result in legal consequences and public backlash.
Summary Table
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Judicial Directive | Special drive to remove stray animals from roads with minimal harm |
| Cities Targeted | Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur |
| Obstruction Penalty | FIRs can be filed against those impeding the drive |
| Citizen Involvement | Reporting channels via phone/email to alert authorities |
| Animal Welfare | Feeding/care allowed only at shelters or designated zones |
| Highway Safety Measures | Regular patrolling mandated to ensure free vehicular movement |
| Legislative Gaps | Rajasthan Road Safety Bill, 2022 still pending enactment |
| Judicial Oversight | Amicus Curiae appointed; next hearing on September 8 |
Final Thoughts
The Rajasthan High Court’s ruling comes at a crucial juncture where growing public danger and unrestrained stray animal growth collide. The directive balances human safety with animal welfare, urging state and municipal bodies to act decisively.
However, real success depends on sustained execution, legislative follow-through, and public cooperation. The September hearing will be a key benchmark in measuring effectiveness. Until then, eyes remain on Rajasthan’s response to a unique and urgent public safety challenge.
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