Calcutta High Court quashes case of stray dog death as accident

The Calcutta High Court has quashed criminal proceedings against a man accused of deliberately running over a stray dog in Howrah, ruling that the investigation failed to prove any intention or cruelty. Justice Ajoy Kumar Mukherjee observed that the incident appeared to be 'an unfortunate road accident' rather than a targeted killing, and that animal cruelty charges require proof of 'mens rea' (criminal intent).

The case stemmed from a December 2022 complaint near Olaibibitala Bylane in Howrah. The complainant alleged the driver arrived specifically to kill the dog and that the slow vehicle movement showed targeting. However, the court noted contradictions: the FIR mentioned a slow-moving vehicle, but witnesses later claimed the car 'desperately' knocked down the dog.

The High Court observed that the prosecution did not produce veterinary reports, forensic evidence, or photographs proving the dog's death, and found no material showing a prior grudge or motive. The court also noted a 26-day delay in filing the complaint, casting doubt on the allegations. Justice Mukherjee ruled that continuing the case would abuse the court process, and quashed the criminal case pending before the Howrah court.