Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur
Kundapur. Feb 13: Following a complaint by PETA, an unauthorized animal and bird shelter operating near the Saligrama temple was relocated on February 12 under the directive of the district administration.
Despite strong resistance from the shelter owners, the animals and birds were safely relocated under police supervision. Earlier, the district administration-led Animal Welfare Board had issued a notice regarding the matter.
On Wednesday, a team comprising officials from the animal husbandry department, police, and the local panchayat, along with PETA representatives Meeth Asher, Sinchana Subrahmanya, and volunteers, arrived at the shelter. In the presence of officials, various animals and birds, excluding a few cattle and two pet dogs, were taken into custody. The rescued species included dogs, cats, parrots, and ducks. Authorities confirmed that these animals and birds would be transferred to Pilikula and authorized wildlife rescue centers.
Sudhindra Aithal, his wife, and their son, Shaurya award-winning child Dheeraj Aithal, vehemently opposed the operation. They argued that the animals and birds were rescued and cared for like family members, and accused the administration of harassment. They attempted to halt the relocation process but later complied after police intervention.
Meanwhile, Dinesh Ganiga Kota, general secretary of the Human Rights Foundation, claimed that proper notice had not been issued before the operation and that legal action would be pursued for violations of procedural law.
The operation was supervised by Kota police inspector Raghavendra P, crime division SI Sudha Prabhu, ASI Gopal Poojary, and other police personnel. Chief veterinary officer Dr Pradeep, Dr Suraj, Saligrama panchayat health officer Mamatha, revenue inspector Deepak, and forest department official Maltesh were also present.
The animal husbandry and veterinary services department issued a statement cautioning the public against handing over animals to unauthorized shelters. The center run by B Sudhindra Aithal lacked basic facilities, including food, water, hygiene, vaccination, and medical care records. As it violated the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, authorities urged the public to refrain from sending animals or birds to such unregistered facilities.