New Delhi, Aug. 22 -- The Supreme Court on Friday modified its August 11 directive that had barred the release of stray dogs from shelters in Delhi and neighbouring areas. The Court has now said that the dogs picked up must be sterilised, vaccinated, and then released back in the same area. The decision has drawn praise from several people on social media, who said it was made "possible because of the unity of dog lovers."

A three-judge bench led by Justice Vikran Nath also clarified that the order does not apply to dogs infected with rabies or those showing "aggressive" behaviour.

At the same time, some users criticised the decision, calling it "pathetic" and arguing that sterilisation will not solve the problem of rabies.

The Court d...