Nagpur: Displaying compassion amid a sensitive murder investigation, city police relaxed strict crime scene protocols to ensure safety and well-being of a pet doberman left behind at the residence of a murder accused.
The Incident
The drama unfolded following the arrest of Navin Pundkar, accused of murdering hotelier Rahul Shahu over a monetary dispute at his residence in the Nara area of North Nagpur last week. Soon after the crime came to light, Pundkar was arrested while his family members left for another place, leaving their pet doberman behind. The police sealed the house compound where the murder allegedly took place.
For nearly two days, the dog's continuous barking and distress howls echoed through the neighbourhood, raising alarm among residents. With temperatures soaring to over 44-45 degrees Celsius, locals feared the animal was suffering from extreme heat, dehydration, and hunger.
Police Intervention
Responding to concerns raised by citizens and animal rights activist Karishma Galani, senior police officials intervened promptly. Joint commissioner of police Navinchandra Reddy directed Jaripatka police to take necessary steps without compromising the integrity of the ongoing investigation. Senior inspector Anil Taksande dispatched a team to the spot. Recognising the urgency, police allowed limited access to the accused's family members to feed and provide water to the dog while ensuring that crucial forensic evidence at the crime scene remained undisturbed.
Taksande said the family, already traumatised by the incident, had been attempting to provide food and water to the pet. However, police have now ensured proper care arrangements and advised the family to shift the dog to a safer location at the earliest.
Community Response
Galani expressed deep gratitude for the police's humane approach. She noted that the coordinated efforts of residents, activists, and law enforcement agency helped rescue an innocent animal, reflecting a growing sense of civic responsibility and empathy in the city.
The incident highlights how, even in the midst of a serious criminal case investigation, humanitarian considerations were not overlooked, with authorities striking a balance between investigative protocol and compassion.
