ITANAGAR, Nov 5: An alleged act of animal cruelty during a live performance by artist Kon Waii Son has drawn public attention and outrage following a complaint filed by Sinchana Subramanyan, Cruelty Response Coordinator at PETA India.
The incident reportedly took place on October 27, 2024, at an event held in Fujin, Itanagar, where Mr. Son allegedly beheaded a live hen on stage, drank its blood from the wound, and discarded the body in front of a large audience. Witnesses at the event described feeling shock and distress, which raised concerns over potential violations of animal welfare laws.
Upon receiving the complaint, the Itanagar Police swiftly registered a First Information Report (Itanagar PS Case No- 201/24) under Section 325 BNS and Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The case has since been taken up for investigation, with authorities committed to ensuring a fair and comprehensive inquiry’ stated SP ICR Rohit RajbirSingh (IPS).
As part of the ongoing investigation, police have interviewed the complainant, Miss Subramanyan, to gain a thorough understanding of the allegations. Video footage capturing the incident was also seized and authenticated under Section 67 of the BSA, allowing it to be used as verified evidence in the case. Additionally, statements from event organizers were recorded to provide a clearer picture of the event and the context of Mr. Son’s performance.
In response to the complaint, the police issued a notice under Section 35(3) of the BNSS to Mr. Son, directing him to join the investigation. Authorities have warned that failure to comply with this notice could lead to his arrest.
The Itanagar Police emphasized that animal welfare is a priority, and any acts of cruelty against animals are taken seriously. We assured the public of a meticulous and impartial investigation, with updates to follow as the case progresses, added SP.