Recently, the Kerala High Court expressed the opinion that the lives of human beings should be prioritized over those of stray dogs.

The Kerala High Court further directed the state government to establish guidelines, schemes, or rules for issuing licenses to individuals interested in caring for stray dogs. This initiative aims to empower dog lovers to protect and care for these animals.

The court noted that students are hesitant to attend school unaccompanied due to the fear of being attacked by stray dogs. Additionally, it remarked that any action taken to address this issue may provoke protests from dog lovers. The court emphasized the increasing nuisance posed by stray dogs and urged dog lovers to be mindful of this concern.

Justice PV Kunhikrishnan suggested that genuine dog lovers should actively collaborate with local government institutions to assist in safeguarding stray dogs, rather than merely expressing their sentiments through print and visual media.

Justice PV Kunjikrishnan also directed the government to engage in discussions with the central government and formulate guidelines or schemes if deemed necessary to address the issue of stray dogs effectively.

The court issued the order in response to a petition filed by residents of Muzhathadam in Kannur, seeking action against Rajeev Krishnan, a resident who had been harboring stray dogs on his property. The court further directed that Rajeev Krishnan must apply for a license within a month, and the Kannur Corporation should issue the license under the law with stringent conditions.

Earlier in July last year, the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights filed an application to intervene as a party in the case. The Commission informed the top court that it had received numerous complaints regarding the nuisance caused by stray dogs and the dire situation of children who have been fatally bitten by them. Additionally, the Commission disclosed that it had initiated suo-motu cases on several such incidents.

In its application, the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights informed the court about the significant number of dog bite incidents reported across the state, particularly targeting children.