HC quashes cross-FIRs in neighbours’ dog-walk scuffle

The Delhi High Court has quashed two cross-FIRs registered after neighbours clashed while out on a routine dog walk, observing that prolonging the criminal proceedings would only revive hostility.

Justice Arun Monga, while invoking inherent powers to secure harmony, ordered both parties to deposit Rs 10,000 each with a dog shelter as a condition for quashing.

The court remarked that the case “redefines for the love of dogs” and emphasised that setting aside the FIRs would “promote cordiality and bonhomie” between the neighbours.

“However, parties to compromise i.e. petitioners in both the petitions, for the love of their pets, shall pay, within one week, a sum of Rs 10,000 in each petition as costs payable to the dog shelter maintained and run by ‘Unity for Stray Animal Foundation’, Khera Khurd,” the court directed.

The dispute arose on February 19, 2024 when tempers flared between the two groups, during a dog walk. Cross allegations followed, resulting in registration of an FIR under Sections 34, 323, 341 and 354 of the IPC and another FIR under Sections 34, 323, 341 and 354-B of the IPC at the KN Katju Marg police station.

During proceedings, counsel for both sides informed the Bench that the matter had been resolved amicably and that neither wished to press the charges further.

Accepting the settlement, the court noted the private and personal nature of the quarrel and considered it fit to terminate the proceedings.

“It is thus deemed just and appropriate to invoke the inherent powers of this court under Section 528 of the BNSS to prevent undue hardship to the parties and promote mutual goodwill and societal harmony. Accordingly, the petitions are allowed. The FIRs lodged at the KN Katju Marg police station and all other consequential proceedings are hereby quashed,” the order read.