Kovai woman receives support from police to feed stray dogs

COIMBATORE: Deputy Commissioner of Police (Coimbatore North) R. Stalin has warned the people of Saravanampatti that action would be taken if anyone stopped a woman, who was feeding stray dogs in the locality, from continuing her duty.

Stalin said this after investigating S. Jennifer (41), who works as a maid, following her complaint that some male members in the neighborhood had taken her out of her cycle on the night of March 24 and verbally abused her when she tried to feed street dogs. TNIE published a report on the incident on April 29. Following the report, DC Stalin called her for an inquiry. Jennifer was accompanied by animal rights activist R Celina. After the investigation, Stalin told Jennifer to continue her service.

Speaking to TNIE, Stalin said, “Under the Indian Constitution, it is a fundamental duty to protect living beings. According to the Animal Birth Control Rule, 2001, stray dogs must be sterilized and vaccinated. Offering food to stray dogs in large numbers in children’s playgrounds and in densely populated places should not be done. Stray dogs can be offered food in the early morning or late evening.”

He warned that action would be taken under Section 38 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and Sections 428 and 429 of the IPC if they tried to prevent her again. “I have given my contact number to the woman so that she can report it if she encounters any problems,” he said.

Celina said: “The police intervention gives animal lovers confidence. Jennifer is very happy because no one can stop her from feeding animals from now on.”