Stray Dog Menace at Gujarat HC; Former GHCAA Chief Seeks Action, Warns of Contempt Petition

Ahmedabad: Senior advocate Asim Pandya, former president of the Gujarat High Court Advocates Association, has renewed his demand for the removal of stray dogs from the Gujarat High Court campus, warning that he may initiate contempt proceedings over the alleged non-compliance of Supreme Court directions on the issue.

In a letter to the Registrar General, Pandya claimed that more than 25 stray dogs are roaming the court premises and surrounding areas, posing a threat to advocates, litigants and court staff. He noted that an advocate was bitten by a dog on the campus a few months ago and alleged that dogs are frequently seen in lawyers’ chambers and across various floors of the court building.

Pandya also raised hygiene concerns, alleging that dogs are defecating and urinating in lawyers’ chambers, court corridors and areas near libraries.

He urged the High Court administration to prohibit feeding of stray dogs within the court building and near lawyers’ chambers until the animals are relocated. Citing Rule 20 of the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, he suggested creating a designated feeding zone away from public areas.

The senior counsel further sought affidavits from individuals feeding the dogs, making them accept tortious liability in case of dog attacks or bite incidents, and requested the Registrar General to initiate a suo motu petition on the issue.

Warning of legal action if no steps are taken, Pandya said he would be compelled to pursue appropriate proceedings, including a contempt petition against those responsible for managing the Gujarat High Court premises. DeshGujarat