'Human lives should be given priority over dogs', Kerala High Court commented on the menace of stray dogs

The Kerala High Court had recently said that the lives of humans should be given priority over those of stray dogs. The High Court also directed the State Government to make guidelines, schemes or rules for granting licenses to persons interested in keeping dogs. The court said the menace of stray dogs is increasing day by day.

They will object to discussing dog interests if something is done, but they should be aware that students are scared to go to school by themselves for fear of being attacked by stray dogs. Judge PV Kunhikrishnan stated that rather than voicing their opinions in print and digital media, people who genuinely care about the welfare of dogs should step up and assist local government organisations in resolving this issue.

In addition, the High Court ordered the government to draft a plan or guidelines after consulting the Central Government, if needed. Residents of Kannur filed a petition, and the court granted their request. Action against Rajeev Krishnan, who is keeping dogs without a licence, was demanded in the petition.

The court directed that Rajeev Krishnan apply for the license within a month. If the license application is not submitted then the Kannur Municipal Corporation should take steps to remove stray dogs from the premises of the house.

It is noteworthy that according to the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, 5,794 cases of stray dog attacks were registered in the year 2019. There were 3951 cases in 2020, 7927 cases in 2021, 11776 cases in 2022 and till 19 June 2023, 6276 cases of stray dog attacks were reported.