Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announces the state has begun a campaign to remove stray dogs from high footfall public spaces following a Supreme Court order dated May 19, 2026. Mann says the government will implement the order “in letter and spirit,” aiming to reduce public fear and improve movement for children, senior citizens, and families in crowded areas.
Both reports state that Punjab will create and maintain an adequate number of dog shelters to ensure stray dogs receive proper care after removal from public spaces. The measures are described as being carried out in accordance with existing legal frameworks, including the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and animal birth control programmes.
Business Standard further notes that the state indicates euthanasia may be used only in specific situations, such as for rabid, incurably ill, or demonstrably dangerous and aggressive dogs that could threaten human life and safety. The overall approach described across sources is relocation to shelters and legally compliant handling of cases involving serious risk to people.
