'Gave Me Global Recognition': Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath On Stray Dog Order

National National

Posted by AI on 2025-08-31 08:46:08 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-01 13:58:13

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Indian Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath is enjoying a new level of recognition following his bench's decision on a controversial issue involving stray dogs. The judge, who like many of his colleagues is active on social media, shared his thoughts on the matter in a recent interview, while also emphasizing the need for caution in such divisive cases.

For those impacted by the Indian Supreme Court's decision to overturn a ruling mandating the country's states implement a regime to neuter and shelter stray dogs, Justice Vikram Nath is a name they will not soon forget. Heading the three-judge bench that stayed the order, Justice Nath, like many of his colleagues, is no stranger to public prominence. And in a recent interview, the judge reflected on the widespread attention, both within India and internationally, that the decision has received. While some have criticized the court's action, Justice Nath highlighted the need to maintain a balance in society, emphasizing that the ruling was not intended to show any favoritism to animals over humans.

"We are pleased that our order, intended for a balanced approach, was appreciated not only in India but also internationally," Justice Nath is quoted as saying.

The ruling's global recognition is especially significant for the justice, who, prior to his appointment to the Supreme Court in 2019, had a successful career in the judiciary spanning over two decades. His appointment to the highest Indian court, likewise, was a significant milestone, as he became the first judge from the entire state of Uttar Pradesh to be appointed directly to the Supreme Court. With such a precedent-setting decision under his belt at the young age of 52, Justice Nath's career is certainly one to watch.

As for the issue of stray animals wreaking havoc in numerous Indian communities, the justice expressed hope that the reversal of the prior order will enable a more sustainable and effective solution for all stakeholders. "We hope that the state governments will take appropriate measures to implement the Animal Birth Control rules of 2001, which imposes a duty not only on the local authorities but also on the pet owners, to ensure that the dog population is substantially reduced," he said.

When asked if the court could have taken an even stronger stance in favor of animal rights, Justice Nath declined to speculate, emphasizing the bench's principal aim to mediate contentious disputes. "I am not in a position to say what the court should or could have done as our approach has always been to resolve disputes through an impartial and balanced approach," said the judge.

The impact of such a statement, of course, resonates far beyond just this particular case, serving as an important reminder of the role of the Indian Supreme Court and the immense responsibility that comes with the privilege of serving on it.

Perhaps the greatest testament to Justice Nath's vision and his bench's wisdom in this matter, however, is best summarized in his own words: "Our order gave me global recognition, and I feel proud to be of some use to my country and to the cause of animals."

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