Ludhiana: The Salem Tabri police have registered a case against a man from Husainpura village for allegedly poisoning three stray dogs—a female and its two puppies. The accused, identified as Sukhwinder Singh, faces criminal charges under Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for killing or poisoning animals, along with Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, following a complaint lodged by local animal welfare activists.
Incident Details
The case came to light on May 20 when Mani Singh, head of an animal welfare group, received a tip-off from Kavita Sharma, a member of an animal rights NGO, about three unconscious strays lying in a field in the village. Upon rushing to the location, Mani found all three animals dead. Local residents reportedly told him that the dogs had consumed a toxic substance linked to Sukhwinder, who allegedly objected to the animals resting in a pit in his fields.
Accused's Confession and Retraction
According to the complainant, Sukhwinder initially confessed to the poisoning when confronted directly, which led the activists to approach law enforcement. However, during subsequent police questioning, Sukhwinder altered his narrative, claiming he had placed rodent killer inside a roti to target pests that were destroying his standing crops, suggesting that the stray dogs must have consumed the bait accidentally.
Police Investigation
Investigating officer ASI Jatinder Singh stated that the police are verifying Sukhwinder’s defence regarding the crop-protection measures. Authorities have preserved the carcasses and are currently awaiting the autopsy report to confirm the exact chemical cause of death before initiating further legal action against the accused.
Legal Provisions
Section 325 of the BNS deals with killing or poisoning animals, while Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act prohibits cruelty to animals. The accused could face imprisonment or fines if convicted.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked outrage among animal lovers and activists in the region, who have demanded strict action against the accused. Many have called for increased awareness about animal rights and stricter enforcement of laws to prevent such incidents.
