News

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a stringent new “zero-tolerance” policy on dog bite incidents, marking one of the strictest urban safety measures in the country. The move comes in response to the rising number of dog attacks across cities, leading to increasing public concern over safety in residential areas, public parks, and housing societies.
Under the new policy, any dog involved in a biting incident — whether stray or pet — will first be shifted to an Animal Birth Control (ABC) centre for 10 days of medical observation, sterilisation, vaccination, and mandatory microchipping to track its history. However, the strongest provision comes into effect if the dog is involved in a second unprovoked attack. In such cases, the animal will be declared aggressive and permanently shifted to a lifelong shelter facility, effectively removing it from public spaces for good.
To ensure fairness, a three-member expert committee, including a veterinary officer, animal behaviour specialist, and government representative, will evaluate whether the incident qualifies as an “unprovoked attack.” The state government has clarified that while public safety remains the top priority, the policy also ensures humane handling, medical care, and monitored sheltering instead of euthanasia.
Officials have highlighted that aggressive dogs identified under this policy have already begun to be relocated to controlled shelters. The decision has sparked a widespread debate over public safety vs animal rights, with citizens, activists, and pet owners sharing mixed reactions. While many residents welcome the decision for safer neighbourhoods, animal welfare groups are urging a balanced implementation to prevent misuse.
With this policy, Uttar Pradesh aims to establish a more accountable, trackable, and structured framework for handling dog bite incidents while strengthening urban safety standards across the state.