Sikkim: Animal rights activists condemn shooting of stray dog in Kazi road, seek action

Animal rights activists gathered at Zero Point, Sikkim on the morning of August 11 to rally against the recent shooting of a stray dog on Kazi Road. 
 

The event, organised by Guardian of Sikkim, People for Animals and Citizens Animal Shelter Sikkim aimed to raise awareness about animal abuse and demand justice for the senseless killing.
 

The controversy erupted after a 3-4-year-old stray dog was discovered dead with a gunshot wound to its chest, on July 19. Initially buried in haste, the dog’s body was exhumed following an anonymous tip, leading to a medical examination at a local polyclinic. The examination confirmed that the dog had been shot.
 

Karma D. Youtso, founder member of Guardian of Sikkim, expressed her anguish at the rally, stating, "I came here today as a human being who speaks against cruelty done to animals. Killing an animal in such a way is cowardly. Just because animals cannot speak doesn’t mean they don’t have lives, feelings, and emotions. We must send a message to the youth that we are human beings, and we must respect all forms of life."
 

Another activist said that the rally was not just about the Kazi Road incident but a broader fight against all forms of animal abuse. "We see animals being poisoned, killed, and mistreated across the region. Our fight is against this injustice, and we aim to take this cause to the national level to highlight the importance of animal lives."
 

Despite the ongoing investigation into the Kazi Road shooting, activists voiced frustration over the lack of transparency. "We actually do not know what investigation is being done. We should at least be updated on the progress," one activist said.
 

The rally concluded with a strong demand for stricter enforcement of animal rights laws and a ban on unlicensed weapons, which are increasingly being used to harm animals. "Today, we are demanding justice for this incident. Animal rights are as important as human rights, and we must begin by ensuring animals are fed and receive medical support," the activists demanded.