JUDGMENT

The stray dog menace and frequent instances of dog attack in Kerala, resulting in grievous injuries and even death in some cases, was brought to the notice of the Honourable Supreme Court during the hearing of a claim for compensation raised by the family of a dog bite victim. On being apprised about the gravity of the situation, the Supreme Court issued Exhibit P4 order, constituting a committee consisting of Justice (Rtd) Siri Jagan, the Law Secretary and the Director of Health Services. The Justice (Rtd.) S.Siri Jagan Committee was authorised to entertain complaints regarding injuries sustained due to dog bites, the nature and gravity of the injury, availability of medicines, the treatment administered, failure of treatment, its cure etc. The Committee was also required to identify the centres/hospitals where anti-rabies vaccines are available free of charge.

2. In terms of the above direction, the Committee submitted reports to the Supreme Court and also started hearing complaints filed by victims of dog bite and related incidents.

3. One such incident occurred in the petitioner Panchayat on

5.9.2016; On that day, while the second respondent was riding his scooter, a stray