The High Court has directed the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and the Police Commissioner to identify and name officials responsible for failing to implement court orders regarding the control of stray dogs in the city.
The court had previously issued orders in 2022 for the capture, sterilization, and vaccination of stray dogs, but the directives have not been followed effectively. Expressing displeasure over repeated non-compliance, the court stated that all officials accountable for the lapse—from the Municipal Commissioner down to lower-level officers—will be held answerable.
The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court observed that despite clear orders, stray dog attacks continue in the city. A contempt petition was filed, alleging that the NMC failed to take necessary steps to control the menace. The petitioner’s counsel argued that the administration had neither implemented the sterilization programme properly nor addressed public safety concerns.
The division bench, comprising Justice Atul Chandurkar and Justice Vrushali Joshi, criticized the civic body for its negligence. The court has instructed that the names of all negligent officers, including the Municipal Commissioner and department heads, be placed on record. The Chief Veterinary Officer will also have to explain his role.
The bench warned that officers showing deliberate negligence in implementing the court’s orders would face action. If the orders are not followed, contempt proceedings will be initiated, and responsibility will be fixed on each negligent official.
The court also stated that excuses such as the absence of budget allocation would not be acceptable, emphasizing that the civic body must prioritize public safety over administrative delays.
Highlighting the seriousness of the matter, the court said that such cases will no longer be given repeated adjournments. If municipal officers fail to comply, the court will directly summon them and take strict action.
The next hearing will review the list of responsible officers and examine what steps have been taken to address the stray dog issue.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com