Shivalli Shopowner Booked After Unrestrained Dogs Cause Public Nuisance

The Udupi Town police have registered a case against the owner of a local electrical shop in Shivalli village for negligence and failing to control pet dogs that allegedly caused a public nuisance and endangered the community.

The legal action was initiated following an official inspection conducted on May 27 by Sathish, a Health Inspector at the Udupi City Municipality. The municipal commissioner had ordered the inspection after receiving multiple complaints from the public regarding the behavior of dogs kept at a residential property near the electrical shop.

During the health inspector's visit to the Shivalli village site, two men reportedly objected to the inspection. While observing the property, the inspector noted that three dogs were roaming completely free in an open yard. The animals were left without any restraints, chains, or protective measures to prevent them from running out onto the public road.

Local residents informed the visiting officer that the dogs frequently chase schoolchildren, elderly morning walkers, motorists, cyclists, and motorcyclists. Residents expressed grave concerns that the animals often dart directly into oncoming traffic, posing a high risk of road accidents and potential loss of life.

Despite receiving clear instructions from the health inspector to relocate or secure the dogs, the owners failed to take any corrective action to address the hazard.

Consequently, the Udupi Town police registered a case against the shopowner under Sections 291 and 292, read with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.