Delhi HC urges Centre to finalise SOP for service dogs supporting persons with disabilities
The Delhi High Court has directed the Indian government to finalize a Standard Operating Procedure for service dogs assisting persons with disabilities by January 2027. The proposed guidelines include a registration system for service dogs and specific safety protocols, such as the use of unique collars and muzzles in crowded public spaces.
Why it matters
This development is a significant step toward improving accessibility and mobility for persons with disabilities in India by establishing a formal legal framework for service animal integration in public life.
The Delhi High Court has directed the Centre to finalise the draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) governing service dogs for assisting persons with disabilities in India.
A division bench comprising Justice Dinesh Mehta and Justice Aditi Choudhary urged authorities to complete the process ahead of the next hearing in January 2027, so that persons like the petitioner and others can use service dogs for their easy commutation or movement.
During the proceedings on October 6, counsel appearing for the central government submitted that public objections and stakeholder feedback on the draft guidelines had been invited and that the final SOP would be notified soon
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