Supreme Court ruling on stray dogs: Here’s what Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, John Abraham & other celebrities have to say

Dogs have walked beside humans for centuries as protectors, companions, and silent healers of lonely hearts. On the bustling streets of Delhi, they are more than ‘strays’, they are guardians for shopkeepers, playmates for children, and a source of comfort for countless people. But a recent Supreme Court ruling threatens to change their lives forever.

The Controversial Ruling

The SC has ordered the removal of all stray dogs from Delhi-NCR streets to shelter homes, giving authorities eight weeks to act. The decision sparked outrage among animal rights activists, many of whom protested in Delhi, with some being detained by police. Critics fear the move will rob these animals of sunlight, freedom, and familiar surroundings.

Bollywood Speaks Out

Actor Janhvi Kapoor shared a heartfelt note, describing strays as ‘night guards’ and ‘friends in a new city,’ urging vaccination, sterilisation, and adoption instead of confinement. Varun Dhawan echoed her concerns, reposting a message calling the ruling a ‘death sentence for all dogs’.

Janhvi Kapoor

John Abraham appealed directly to the Chief Justice of India to review what he called an ‘impractical and inhumane’ order, pointing out its conflict with animal rights laws.

Comedian Vir Das encouraged Delhi residents to adopt strays, calling them ‘low-maintenance and loving’. Director Siddharth Anand labelled the verdict a ‘death warrant’ and urged for a public petition.

If you are a resident of Delhi. Can I persuade you to adopt an indie off the streets, more than one? They are extremely healthy, low maintenance, and will provide you with more love affection and gratitude than you could ever imagine. Am also asking you to wholeheartedly and… pic.twitter.com/XVE1EuLIdv

— Vir Das (@thevirdas) August 11, 2025

Voices From Television

TV star Rupali Ganguly, a proud dog rescuer, reminded that in Indian tradition, dogs guard temples and homes. She likened their removal to ‘silencing an alarm before a fire’.

For many, these dogs are not nuisances but neighbours, loyal souls who ask for little yet give boundless love. As the debate rages, one question remains: will Delhi choose compassion over confinement?