Punjab to remove stray dogs from crowded public areas: CM Mann

Chandigarh, May 22

The Punjab government has said it will implement Supreme Court directions on stray dogs following growing concern over attacks reported across the state. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced on Friday that stray dogs would be removed from high footfall public spaces, including areas frequently used by children, senior citizens and families.

The move follows directions issued by the Supreme Court of India on 19 May 2026.

Bhagwant Singh Mann said the state government had already issued instructions to ensure compliance with the court’s order “in true letter and spirit”.

He added that the Punjab government would create and maintain shelters for stray dogs to ensure their proper care while also addressing public safety concerns.

The chief minister said legally permissible measures, including euthanasia in cases involving rabid, incurably ill or demonstrably aggressive dogs, would be carried out in accordance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules.

Bhagwant Singh Mann described the growing stray dog problem as a “grave threat to human life”, saying recent attacks had caused widespread concern among residents across Punjab.

In a post on X, he reiterated that the government would prioritise both human safety and animal welfare while implementing the Supreme Court’s directions.