Questions and your rights

Know what to do, and what the law says

Answers to the questions people ask us most: cruelty, feeding, the 2026 Supreme Court order, dog bites, helplines and the foundation. Each answer links its source.

Is hurting or killing a street animal a crime?

Yes. Under Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, maiming or killing any animal is a cognisable offence, with a jail term of up to five years, a fine, or both. Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 also prohibits causing unnecessary pain or suffering, and treats beating, chasing or throwing stones at dogs as cruelty. You can report cruelty to the police (112) and ask them to register an FIR.

Source: PETA India: FIR under Section 325 BNS

What did the Supreme Court decide about street dogs in May 2026?

In a suo motu case reported on 19 May 2026, the Supreme Court directed states and union territories to remove dogs from public places and high-footfall spots such as transit points, without returning them after sterilisation or vaccination. It asked for at least one fully functional Animal Birth Control (ABC) centre in every district, stronger shelters and vaccination, and enough anti-rabies vaccine in government facilities. Euthanasia is allowed only under statutory protocols for incurably ill, rabid or demonstrably dangerous dogs. Dedicated feeding spots are to be allotted. Rules are still being put in place, so check with your municipal body for local arrangements.

Source: Down To Earth, 19 May 2026

Can euthanasia be done because a resident complains about a dog?

No. As reported, euthanasia is allowed only as a last resort, for dogs that are rabid, have an incurable painful disease, or are proven to be dangerously aggressive with no feasible rehabilitation. A resident's complaint alone is not enough, and it must be carried out by a qualified veterinarian and documented with the local authority.

Source: Sansa Legal summary of the 2026 verdict

Where can community dogs be fed?

Feeding should happen at designated feeding spots. Under the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, the RWA, apartment owners' association or local body representative should arrange these spots away from entry points, stairs and children's play areas, keep them clean and litter-free, and feed at a fixed time. The Supreme Court's 2026 order also asks authorities to allot dedicated feeding spots. Feed kindly and clean up after.

Source: ABC Rules 2023 summary

Who resolves disputes between feeders and residents?

The ABC Rules, 2023 describe a dispute mechanism involving the Chief Veterinary Officer, police representatives, the District Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the organisation running Animal Birth Control, and the RWA. In Ghaziabad you can reach the Chief Veterinary Officer's office on 0120-2823215.

Source: ABC Rules 2023 summary

Is there a government animal ambulance in Uttar Pradesh?

Yes. Uttar Pradesh launched the toll-free 1962 helpline with 520 mobile veterinary units in March 2023. It is mainly meant for livestock and destitute cattle. Call 1962 from Ghaziabad or Noida to request a mobile veterinary van.

Source: Drishti IAS

Who do I call for a snake, monkey or other wild animal?

Do not try to catch it. Keep people and pets away and call a wildlife rescue team such as Wildlife SOS (9871963535) or the forest department. Our team can also help coordinate if you report it.

Source: Sniff Society helpline list

Is there a 24x7 government vet hospital in Delhi?

Tis Hazari Veterinary Hospital near Pul Mithai is listed as running 24x7 in three shifts (011-23890485, 011-20833238). Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre in Raja Garden lists a 24-hour OPD (9560802425). Call ahead before travelling.

Source: Dog With Blog: Delhi NCR helplines

What should I do if a dog bites me?

Wash the wound right away with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, then go to the nearest government hospital or doctor the same day for anti-rabies vaccination. The Supreme Court has asked governments to keep anti-rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin available in government medical facilities. Note the dog's location so it can be observed.

Source: Down To Earth, 19 May 2026

What does Pashu Jeev Raksha Foundation do?

We are a Section 8 not-for-profit company in Delhi NCR that rescues, treats and shelters street animals of every species. Our first shelter, a 110 × 30 ft steel structure with 22 recovery kennels, is being built in Ghaziabad. You can report an injured animal, donate, sponsor a kennel, give in kind or volunteer on this website.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Our 80G approval has been applied for and is pending. Until it is granted, receipts do not carry a tax benefit, and we say so on every receipt. We will update this as soon as it is approved.

Is the shelter open yet?

Not yet. The land is committed and the designs are done; construction is the next step. You can follow every step on our shelter page and sponsor one of the 22 kennels.

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This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws and court orders change; check the linked source or consult a lawyer for your situation.