Indeed, the Goa Bench of the Bombay High Court is playing a vital role in ensuring the effective implementation of laws and protecting public safety. The Court’s intervention in the growing stray dog crisis across Goa is a commendable and much-needed step. Kudos to the Goa High Court! I have personally written several times to the Government requesting directions to government-aided authorities to undertake sterilisation of stray dogs in our locality. Unfortunately, there was little or no response. The High Court has now directed the State and Central Animal Husbandry Departments to submit reliable census data on the stray dog population. Notices and strict compliance orders have also been issued to municipal councils and panchayats for proper implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme. The Court has further directed authorities to establish dedicated shelters and safely relocate stray animals from sensitive public places such as schools, hospitals and bus stands. The concerned authorities must now act promptly and demonstrate accountability. Court orders must translate into visible action on the ground, not merely remain on paper.
RAJESH BANAULIKAR, Arpora
