A Delhi court has ordered the joint commissioner of police (transport range) to conduct a fresh investigation into the disappearance of two community dogs from Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, after describing the earlier police inquiry as “inadequate” and lacking “serious efforts.” The case concerns two dogs named ‘Kaddu’ and ‘Brownie,’ who have been missing for over a month following their reported relocation from the airport premises.
Court Observations on Police Inquiry
Taking note of submissions made by community feeder Rashim Sharma, the additional chief judicial magistrate observed that the status reports filed by the police failed to establish key facts, including the dogs’ current whereabouts and the role of individuals allegedly involved in their removal. The court had earlier directed the station house officer of IGI Airport police station and the deputy commissioner of police, IGI Airport, to file a detailed action taken report. However, the court noted that the investigation focused more on questioning the complainants than on identifying those responsible.
Gaps in Investigation
On April 29, the court pointed out that while CCTV footage showed a person luring one of the dogs into a vehicle, the investigating officer had drawn no clear conclusions from this evidence. Furthermore, the court flagged that basic details such as vaccination and sterilisation records were not collected, despite being readily available. The court emphasized the need for a thorough probe, stating that the earlier efforts were insufficient.
The matter is now listed for hearing on May 11, with the joint commissioner of police (transport range) expected to submit a fresh action taken report. The case has drawn attention to the welfare of community animals and the responsibility of authorities in ensuring their safety.
