Police Rescue Animals, Take Action Against Unlicensed Pet Shop in North Kashmir

Srinagar: Police in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have rescued several animals and initiated action against an unlicensed pet shop following a joint inspection, officials said on Wednesday.

According to a police statement, the action was taken after a complaint was received from Animal Aid Kashmir, an Anantnag-based NGO. A joint team comprising police personnel, officials from the Wildlife Protection Department, and representatives of the Municipal Council Baramulla conducted an inspection at Zain Pet Store in Baramulla town.

During the inspection, multiple animals were found at the premises and subsequently rescued. They were handed over to Animal Aid Kashmir through the Wildlife Department after proper documentation, police said.

Following the inspection, legal action under Section 36 of the Police Act was initiated at Police Station Baramulla. Authorities have directed the shop owner to close the establishment until a valid license is obtained.

Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of animals, Baramulla Police urged the public to report any incidents of animal cruelty or illegal animal trade.