11 stray dogs, eight birds and three cats found dead
SHILLONG, June 23: Animal welfare activists and residents have raised the alarm after 11 stray dogs, eight birds and three cats were found dead in the Laban area near the Circuit House since Sunday, in what is suspected to be a case of deliberate poisoning.
Volunteers rushed to the spot after being alerted and buried the carcasses. At least one animal is still alive and undergoing examination. Activists are awaiting medical and laboratory reports before filing an FIR and pushing for post-mortems. Residents of the locality have already lodged a police complaint.
Viveca, animal activist from Malki and founder of God’s Creatures Foundation (an NGO awaiting full registration), was among the first to respond. She warned that the danger is not limited to strays.
“Suppose you let your dog or your cat out, day or night and somebody has placed poisoned food nearby. Your own pet can become a victim,” she said.
She emphasised that the Supreme Court’s recent orders on stray animals prohibit harming or killing them. “You have no right to kill strays. The law says we must protect them, vaccinate them, and house them, but we do not even have a shelter,” Viveca added.
While acknowledging residents’ genuine concerns about stray dogs moving in packs, activists stressed that poisoning is illegal, cruel and indiscriminate. It endangers pet animals, wildlife and even children, causes prolonged suffering, and offers no lasting solution. They called for humane methods such as sterilisation, vaccination and proper shelters.
Viveca also praised a local rescuer known as Buddha, saying, “Without him, nothing is possible. He would go into the drains, he would go anywhere, just to save animals. He has helped all the other NGOs as well.”
Police have collected the carcass of a bird and suspected poisoned rice from the spot for forensic examination. Samples will be sent to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL). An activist has also filed a police complaint, and efforts are on to involve the Veterinary department for post-mortem of the deceased dogs.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem confirmed that an inquiry has been launched. Investigators are examining all possible angles to identify those responsible and establish the motive. The probe is ongoing.
Save the Voiceless and God’s Creatures Foundation have appealed to residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and extend support through volunteering, fostering or contributions.
