Arguments in sloth bear case continue

CHANDIGARH, Feb 23: Arguments in the case pertaining to the release of Himalayan sloth bear to its former owners Hajju and Vijendra were held today in the court of UT Judicial Magistrate Ist Class Paramvir Nijjar.

While the zoo authorities repeated their demand of payment of expenses incurred on the bear at the rate of Rs 35.11 per day, the counsel for the applicants stated that when notice for sapurdari was served, the zoo authorities did not raise any such issue.

The counsel for the applicants said that as such the application of the zoo authorities was time-barred as the court had no jurisdiction to review an order already passed. Regarding paying the expenses, the counsel stated that the same should either be borne by the complainant or the state.

The zoo authorities had earlier mentioned that they would release the animal only if the applicants got a bigger cage.

The case has been adjourned till tomorrow.