The Delhi High Court recently quashed the first information reports (FIRs) lodged by neighbours against each other over an altercation while they were walking their dogs [Ashish Jindal & Ors v The State of NCT of Delhi & Anr]. .Justice Arun Monga quashed the cases subject to the condition that both parties pay ₹10,000 each to a dog shelter. The Court observed that this was truly a case that redefines “for the love of dogs” but keeping the FIR alive would rekindle hostility between the groups while quashing the same 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, Near Nahar Wala Pul, Mithishi Milk Point-110082,” the Court ordered. .The incident occurred on February 19, 2024, during a routine dog walk when an altercation broke out between the two groups, leading to cross-allegations and registration of FIRs. Legal representatives from both sides informed the Court that the matter had been resolved amicably and that the parties did not wish to pursue the case further. .Taking note of the private and personal nature of the dispute and the fact that both sides wished for an amicable end, the Court quashed the case. “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. FIR No.70/2024 dated 19.02.2024, for the alleged offences u/S 34, 323, 341, 354 of IPC, and FIR No.71/2024 dated 19.12.2024, u/S 34, 323, 341, 354 (B) of IPC, both lodged at Police Station K.N. Katju Marg, and all other consequential proceedings are hereby quashed.”.Advocates Iqbal Singh and NK Sharma appeared for petitioner Ansh Jindal.Advocates Ravinder, Lalit and Vinod Kumar Mangal appeared for Kirti Chauhan. .[Read Order]
