Relief for Stray Dog Order Protesters: Delhi HC Directs No Coercive Action for Now

The Delhi High Court has been informed that no immediate “coercive action” will be taken against nine individuals facing an FIR for allegedly protesting and disrupting proceedings in the Supreme Court over an order concerning stray dogs. This significant development brings a temporary reprieve for the activists, who had sought the quashing of the FIR filed against them.

During the recent hearing, the Delhi Police, through its counsel, assured Justice Subramonium Prasad that should they deem it necessary to arrest any of the petitioners, a prior notice would be duly served.

This assurance was a pivotal point in the court's consideration of the matter.

The petitioners had approached the Delhi High Court seeking to quash the FIR, which stemmed from their alleged disruption of Supreme Court proceedings while expressing dissent against its directives regarding the management and welfare of stray animals.

The court had previously granted interim protection from arrest, providing an initial safeguard to the activists as the legal process unfolded.

While noting the police’s submission, the court has now scheduled the matter for further consideration in January. This indicates that although immediate relief has been granted, the legal process is ongoing, and the petitioners' plea to quash the FIR will be thoroughly examined in the upcoming hearing.

This case continues to highlight the delicate balance between the right to protest and the maintenance of decorum within judicial premises, particularly concerning emotionally charged issues like animal welfare.