तमिलनाडु ने घायल, परित्यक्त जानवरों के लिए आश्रय की योजना बनाई

The struggle of Chennai to meet the Supreme Court's deadline for stray dog relocation highlights several key concepts related to animal welfare, urban governance, and legal mandates. The core issue revolves around the implementation of directives related to stray animal management within a framework of limited resources and conflicting priorities. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, serves as the primary legislation governing animal welfare in India. This act outlines provisions to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and establishes the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to advise the government on animal welfare issues. In this context, the GCC's actions are expected to align with the PCA Act's objectives, ensuring that stray dogs are relocated and housed humanely, with adequate provisions for their health and well-being. The act mandates that animal shelters provide proper food, shelter, and medical care, which the GCC aims to achieve through its new facilities in Madhavaram and Velachery.

Another crucial concept is the role of urban local bodies in managing public health and safety. The Supreme Court's directive places the onus on civic bodies like the GCC to address the issue of stray dogs in public spaces. This responsibility falls under the broader mandate of urban local bodies to maintain a safe and healthy environment for citizens. The GCC's efforts to construct new shelters and incentivize NGOs reflect its attempt to fulfill this obligation. However, the delays and challenges faced by the GCC underscore the limitations of urban governance in addressing complex issues with multiple stakeholders and resource constraints. The lack of space and infrastructure, as cited by NGOs, highlights the need for better urban planning and resource allocation to effectively manage stray animal populations.

Finally, the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), particularly Article 48A, emphasizes the state's responsibility to protect and improve the environment and safeguard wildlife. While not directly enforceable by courts, DPSPs guide state action and policy-making. Animal welfare aligns with the broader environmental concerns enshrined in Article 48A. The GCC's efforts to manage stray dogs can be seen as an attempt to uphold this principle by addressing the risks posed by stray animals to public health and safety while also ensuring their humane treatment. UPSC aspirants should note the intersection of legal mandates (PCA Act), urban governance (role of GCC), and constitutional principles (DPSP) in addressing the issue of stray animal management. Understanding these interconnected concepts is crucial for both prelims and mains examinations, particularly in the context of social justice, environment, and governance-related questions.