The Delhi High Court has initiated a fresh examination of public safety concerns surrounding certain aggressive dog breeds, directing both the Central government and the Delhi government to formally respond to a petition seeking a complete ban on dogs classified as “ferocious.” The plea was filed in the aftermath of a disturbing incident in which a six-year-old boy was brutally attacked by a Pitbull, leaving him with serious injuries. The attack has reignited long-standing debates over whether certain breeds should be permitted in densely populated urban areas.
During the hearing, the petitioner argued that the recurring pattern of violent incidents—many involving breeds originally developed for guarding, fighting, or high-intensity work—clearly demonstrates a need for stronger regulation. The plea asks the court to prohibit the import, sale, breeding, and ownership of specific breeds that are commonly associated with severe attacks. It also contends that local governing bodies and pet owners often fail to comply with safety protocols, making the risk of such incidents alarmingly high.
The High Court issued notice not only to the Centre and the Delhi government but also to municipal authorities and the owner of the dog involved in the recent attack. The bench noted that the matter raises important questions about public safety, responsible pet ownership, and the scope of governmental authority in regulating domestic animals.
This issue has a broader legal history. The Union government had earlier attempted to impose a nationwide prohibition on more than 20 breeds—such as Pitbull Terriers, Rottweilers, Argentine Mastiffs, and other dogs frequently classified as dangerous. That circular, however, was struck down by the Delhi High Court in 2024 on the grounds that the government had acted without adequate consultation. The court held that decisions affecting animal welfare, breeders, veterinarians, pet owners, and public safety stakeholders must be taken transparently and only after giving all concerned parties an opportunity to present their views.
In its earlier ruling, the High Court had directed the government to release draft rules or a proposed notification, gather feedback from experts and the public, and make a well-informed decision rather than implementing an immediate blanket ban. However, little progress reportedly occurred in that direction, which has now prompted renewed judicial intervention following the recent child-mauling case.
The present petition argues that allowing such breeds without stringent controls can lead to preventable tragedies, particularly in crowded neighbourhoods where children and elderly individuals are at heightened risk. It stresses that a ban—if based on proper consultation and scientific assessment—could significantly reduce such incidents. The court, for its part, emphasised that any further decision must be both legally robust and supported by empirical data.
The matter has been listed for further hearing after the governments submit their detailed affidavits. The upcoming responses will likely determine whether the High Court moves closer to re-evaluating, modifying, or potentially reinstating a breed ban that aligns with public safety concerns while also accounting for animal-welfare considerations.
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