The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced stringent new rules to tackle the growing problem of stray dog attacks on humans. As per the updated guidelines, any stray dog that bites a person without provocation will be kept in an animal centre for observation over a 10-day period.

Dr. Vijay Amritraj, Veterinary & Animal Welfare Officer at Prayagraj Municipal Corporation, explained that during this observation period, the dog will be sterilized (if not already), microchipped, and then returned to its original location after the 10 days.

However, if a dog bites a human a second time without any provocation, it will face lifelong confinement in an animal facility unless adopted. Individuals who wish to adopt such dogs must sign an affidavit promising to care for the animal throughout its life and not release it back into public spaces.

A three-member committee, including a veterinary doctor,an animal behaviour expert, and a municipal representative, will evaluate each case to determine whether the bite was provoked or not. Dr. Amritraj added, “If it is found that a person is deliberately provoking the dog, action will be taken against them as well. In some cases, the dog will receive training from experts to help it remain calm in stressful situations.”

This order, issued by Principal Secretary Amrit Abhijat on September 10, follows Supreme Court directives aimed at improving stray dog management and preventing rising bite incidents across the state.