Chandigarh, 22 May (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday announced that the Punjab Government will implement the Supreme Court’s directions regarding stray dogs in “true letter and spirit” while ensuring both public safety and humane treatment of animals.

Referring to the Supreme Court’s May 19, 2026 directions, the Chief Minister said the state government has already issued necessary instructions to ensure strict compliance across Punjab. He stated that stray dogs will be removed from high footfall public places so that children, senior citizens and families can move freely without fear for their safety.

The Chief Minister said the government will also establish and maintain an adequate number of dog shelters for the proper care and rehabilitation of stray dogs. He added that the issue would be handled in a humane and legally compliant manner while prioritizing public safety.

Bhagwant Mann further clarified that legally permissible measures, including euthanasia in cases involving rabid, incurably ill, or dangerously aggressive dogs posing a threat to human life, would be carried out strictly under the provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules.

He said the growing stray dog menace has become a serious concern across Punjab, with increasing incidents of dog attacks creating fear among citizens. “The Punjab Government is committed to safeguarding public welfare and taking every necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of the people,” he said.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH