Korean national among 8 in the dock for shooting pigeons

Sources said the incident reportedly happened on May 30, but it came to the attention of animal rights organisation, Blue Cross of India, after a video went viral on social media. In it, the expat is seen firing at a pigeon. Then, his assistant is seen running to fetch the shot pigeon.

“Initially, we were clueless about those involved. But looking the video keenly, we realised that the incident took place in the South Korean spare parts manufacturing company. We also learnt that the officials shoot down pigeons entering their premises every Sunday,” Dawn Williams, Blue Cross general manager, told DT Next.

A complaint was lodged at the Walajabad police station, following which eight persons including the company’s personnel officer, safety officer and security personnel were booked under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, animal rights activists said.

“We will press the police officials to file an FIR by Monday. If they fail to do so, we have no choice but to approach the court,” Williams added.

Speaking to DT Next, Kancheepuram District Forest Officer, Sachin Bhosale said they were aware of the incident, but pointed out domestic birds like pigeons do not come under Wildlife Protection Act. “So we advised them to register a case with the police, as they alone can punish offenders under PCA Act,” the DFO said.