In a courtroom exchange that unfolded today, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud voiced serious apprehensions regarding the escalating issue of stray dogs in the country, prompted by an injury sustained by a counsel. What began as a routine inquiry swiftly transformed into a dialogue on the perilous "street dog menace" afflicting neighborhoods across India.

The exchange transpired when Chief Justice DY Chandrachud observed an injury on a counsel's arm and probed for its origin. The counsel responded, "Five dogs hounded me."

Expressing astonishment, the Chief Justice inquired further, "In the neighborhood?"

The counsel confirmed, "Yes."

Demonstrating authentic concern for the counsel's well-being, CJI Chandrachud offered immediate assistance, remarking, "Do you need any medical attention? I can ask the registry to take you right now."

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was also present during the exchange, emphasized the gravity of the issue. He cited a recent incident in Uttar Pradesh where a child's life was endangered due to a dog bite. Mehta revealed that the child initially did not receive adequate medical attention, which ultimately led to the development of rabies, proving fatal.

CJI DY Chandrachud shared his own personal encounter with the menace, recounting, "Two years ago, my law clerk was parking his car, and he was also attacked by street dogs."

As the conversation progressed, Senior Advocate Vijay Hansaria implored the Chief Justice to take suo moto action to address the "street dog menace" and ensure the safety of citizens.

In response, CJI Chandrachud assured that the matter would be given due consideration, stating, "We will see what can be done."

It is noteworthy that another Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and KV Viswanathan, is presently reviewing a series of petitions related to the issue of street dogs. These petitions emanate from orders issued by the Kerala and Bombay High Courts. Recently, the Kannur district panchayat in Kerala filed an application seeking humane euthanasia for suspected rabid or extremely dangerous dogs. This move was prompted by the tragic death of an 11-year-old autistic child who was mauled by stray dogs in Kannur.