Order of the Supreme Court of India in the matter of Bombay Natural History Society & Others Vs Union of India & Others dated 19/02/2024.

The matter related to management of feral, free-ranging and domesticated dogs in wildlife habitats and forests. The petitioner said that although guidelines have been framed by the Animal Welfare Board of India regarding stray dogs/animals, there are no guidelines pertaining to free ranging dogs and they are becoming a danger to many other species such as the Great Indian Bustard.

The SC said that the petitioner must make its representation before the Animal Welfare Board itself. However, the petitioner informed the apex court that their representations before the Animal Welfare Board have been left unanswered earlier.

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The Supreme Court, February 19, 2024 directed the Animal Welfare Board to go through the representation of the petitioner, giving them a personal hearing and pass a speaking order within four weeks thereafter.