THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Tension escalated in Karumkulam panchayat on Tuesday as residents, along with local body authorities, intensified their protest against a dog shelter functioning in the area.
Despite an order from the local self-government department directing panchayat authorities not to obstruct the functioning of the animal shelter, the Karumkulam panchayat on Monday initiated action against the facility, alleging that it is operating without a No Objection Certificate from the local body
On Tuesday, a special team comprising officials from the engineering, health and revenue wings of the panchayat conducted an inspection at the shelter, which has been functioning in the area for the past eight years. The situation turned tense as residents stepped up their protest demanding the closure of the facility.
Police arrived at the spot to bring the situation under control, but residents refused to withdraw their protest, further escalating tensions.
The issue intensified after around 50 dogs captured from the city corporation area were recently relocated to the shelter. Since then, residents have been staging continuous protests.
Karumkulam panchayat president Pushpam Vincent alleged that the shelter lacks the required legal documents.
“Today’s inspection revealed that the operator applied for a licence only recently and does not possess the necessary documents. All constructions within the shelter have been carried out without mandatory approval from the panchayat. Residents in the vicinity are in distress, and several houses are located near the facility.”
He added that even if a licence is granted, the facility is permitted to house only around 50 dogs.
“Currently, nearly 200 dogs are being sheltered, which is a clear violation. Moreover, a family with small children is residing within the shelter premises, which is also a violation. The stray dog issue in the panchayat has worsened after more dogs were brought here,” he alleged.
He said that various departments will submit an official report following the inspection, based on which the panchayat will decide on further action.
Though TNIE tried to reach out, the owner of the animal shelter was unavailable to give a comment or response.