GUWAHATI: The arrest of a man in connection with the deaths of two community dogs in Guwahati's Beltola-Hatigaon area has brought some relief to residents, even as police continue to investigate whether the two incidents were part of a deliberate pattern.
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Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) T.R. Pegu said the investigation was taken up after complaints reached Hatigaon Police Station and assured that the case would be pursued under the law.
"We treated both incidents with seriousness from the beginning. The accused has been identified and arrested. CCTV footage, witness statements and other evidence have been examined during the investigation. Cruelty to animals is a punishable offence, and anyone found violating the law will face legal action," Pegu said.
According to the DCP, the accused has been booked under Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) along with relevant provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. He said the investigation is underway and additional legal provisions may be invoked if fresh evidence emerges.
The case first surfaced after the death of Kaani, a 12-year-old sterilised and vaccinated community dog that was looked after by local residents.
Animal caregiver Syeda Ambia Zahan lodged an FIR, alleging that the dog had been killed and its body dumped near a grave beside the South West Sarbajanin Naamghar in the Hatigaon-Beltola area.
Within 24 hours, another community dog, Boga, around eight years old, was found dead near Ajanta Path, only a short distance from where Kaani's body had been recovered.
The second incident deepened suspicion among local residents, who approached Hatigaon Police Station alleging that the two dog deaths could be connected. The back-to-back killings triggered outrage in the locality and sparked widespread discussion on social media, with animal welfare activists and residents demanding a thorough investigation.
Following the arrest, residents and animal lovers held a candlelight tribute on August 4 at the spot where the dogs were found, remembering Kaani and Boga while calling for strict action against those responsible and better protection for community animals.
Police said the investigation is ongoing and have not yet confirmed whether the accused was involved in any other similar incidents. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) urged the public to promptly report cases of animal cruelty, reiterating that such offences are punishable under the law and will be dealt with seriously.