ZIRAKPUR: A criminal investigation is on after 22 stray puppies were allegedly poisoned in a targeted attack that has left animal lovers reeling from this stomach-churning act of cruelty.The grim discovery was made by animal welfare activists who found the puppies unconscious near various “laddoos” — traditional sweets — suspected to have been laced with toxins. While seven of the animals have died, 15 others remain in critical condition, battling for their lives at a local veterinary hospital.Karamjit Kaur, a representative of a non-governmental organisation for stray dogs, alerted authorities after finding the scattered sweets and the stricken animals. In response, Zirakpur police have registered a daily diary report (DDR) and secured the area for evidence.Inspector Satinder Singh, the local station house officer (SHO), has confirmed that forensic analysts await the results of post-mortem examinations scheduled for Thursday. “Further legal action will be initiated once poisoning is officially confirmed,” the police officer stated.Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage from nearby businesses to identify those responsible for planting the lethal bait.If identified, the culprits face charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The incident has drawn hundreds of residents and animal rights volunteers to the police station, demanding exemplary punishment.“Killing stray dogs is never a solution,” said animal welfare volunteer Geeta Phulia, echoing the community’s call for justice.As veterinarians work to stabilise the surviving puppies, social organisations and various animal rights groups continue to press for the immediate arrest of the perpetrators behind this cruel incident in Zirakpur.
