Delhi police file 4 FIRs as protests erupt over SC stray dog relocation order

Mass protests have gripped Delhi over the Supreme Court’s directive to shift stray dogs into shelters across the capital and NCR cities — a move that has sparked outrage among animal rights activists and residents.

The Delhi Police have registered at least four FIRs in connection with the demonstrations, two of them invoking provisions related to obstructing and assaulting police officers on duty. While no arrests have been made so far, officials confirmed that notices will soon be served to those identified in the clashes.

The first case was lodged at Kartavya Path police station after demonstrators gathered near Parliament hours after the court’s August 11 order. A day later, Connaught Place police registered another FIR following a protest where a viral 56-second clip showed a woman sub-inspector scuffling with a woman protester inside a bus as detainees resisted detention.

The third FIR was filed at Tughlak Road police station after a protest march near Lodhi Garden on Wednesday evening. It followed the circulation of a one-minute video appearing to show demonstrators misbehaving with an inspector-level officer. The fourth case was registered on Friday after protesters regrouped at Connaught Place and attempted a march towards Parliament before being detained.

A senior officer underlined that with Parliament in session, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita remain in force across New Delhi district. “Jantar Mantar is the designated site for protests, provided permission is obtained. Legal action has been initiated as per the law,” the officer said.

On August 11, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan directed the Delhi government, municipal corporation and NCR authorities to move stray dogs to designated shelters and ensure they are not released back on the streets. The bench also warned that individuals or organisations obstructing the relocation could face legal action.

However, the directive has drawn fierce pushback, with demonstrators warning of “grim consequences” for the animals. On August 14, a separate three-judge bench reserved its order on petitions seeking a stay, promising to issue an interim ruling after hearing all parties.