Where are Kadu and Duru? Delhi airport sparks controversy after missing dog

Public outrage is brewing across the country over the alleged “illegal” removal and “abuse” of community dogs by authorities at Delhi’s IGI airport after a series of disturbing videos went viral on social media.A widely circulated video showed a brown stray dog ​​named Dholu being tied up with a rope by sanitation workers and dragged through Terminal 1 on April 2. Animal rights activists alleged the use of a noose and rough treatment, calling the incident a clear case of cruelty.In another incident a few days ago, Kaddu, a 14-year-old toothless female dog familiar to regular passengers, was reported missing from Terminal 3. Local keepers claim she was forcibly removed by airport authorities in violation of animal protection laws.The videos sparked online activity under hashtags such as #JusticeForDholu and #BringKadduBack, drawing widespread condemnation from animal lovers and frequent travelers.“It is evident from the video that these two friendly dogs have been illegally taken away by the airport authorities. We demand that long-term community dogs be allowed to stay at the airport,” said Mini Mehra, a Gurgaon resident who frequently flies.Activists have since escalated the matter legally, seeking action against the airport authority and its contractors for allegedly violating India’s animal sterilization rules, which prohibit the transfer of sterilized community dogs from their designated areas.A Delhi court also stepped in, asking the local police to explain why no FIR has been registered so far. The next hearing is scheduled for April 29.Activists warned that any proven cruelty could result in severe penalties under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Indian Act.“Based on the court’s verdict, we will decide the next course of action. We also plan to submit a separate petition to the central government seeking strict action against the airport authorities,” animal welfare activist Sanjoy Roy said.Meanwhile, airport operator Delhi International Airport Limited defended its actions on the grounds of passenger safety. The government insists stray dogs are cared for under veterinary supervision and any intervention is done responsibly.Delhi Airport recently tweeted: “We would also like to inform you that the brown dog… has been handled with care, calmed down and gently returned to its familiar area. Our approach remains rooted in care, safety and responsible management.”“Meanwhile, we have learned from a number of social media posts that there is another dog in T3 who has been reported missing since March 26. We sincerely hope it is safe and nearby,” it added.Frequent flyers rejected the explanation offered by Delhi airport authorities. “These videos are so shocking,” said Anjali Y. “Whenever my mother and I fly to Delhi for treatment, we make a point of hugging Dholu, a harmless dog. We hope the two dogs return to the airport as soon as possible.”