The Karnataka High Court has refused to lift an interim stay on an FIR registered against employees of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) over alleged relocation of dogs within its Bengaluru township.
Justice M Nagaprasanna directed respondents to file objections by the next hearing on April 25 and also ordered DRDO to preserve CCTV footage that may be relevant to the case.
FIR under animal cruelty law
The case was registered at Mahadevapura Police Station under provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
The FIR reportedly named the Estate Manager and Cleaning Supervisor of DRDO based on a complaint linked to alleged mistreatment or relocation of dogs within the DRDO campus.
Court questions jurisdiction
During proceedings, the court reportedly questioned how civic authorities could intervene if dogs were merely being relocated within DRDO’s own premises.
The judge had earlier observed surprise that such a complaint resulted in criminal proceedings when the allegation involved internal relocation rather than clear cruelty.
CCTV footage to be preserved
The High Court specifically directed DRDO to preserve CCTV footage from the relevant day in case it becomes necessary for further investigation.
The interim protection granted earlier will continue until the next hearing.
BBMP and complainant seek probe
Counsel appearing for the complainant and civic authorities sought permission to continue investigation, arguing that no coercive action need be taken immediately.
However, the court said objections must first be filed before deciding whether the probe can resume.
Larger stray dog debate resurfaces
The matter has also reopened wider discussions on stray dog management, animal welfare and civic responsibilities in Bengaluru.