Man demands return of ‘spy’ pigeon detained in India

A man has claimed to be the rightful owner of a pigeon supposedly held by Indian authorities for allegedly being used for spying.

Habibullah is a resident of Bugga Village in Narowal. He said, “On Eid day, I let about 12 pigeons, including Golden Madi, fly. All pigeons returned except Golden Madi.” He added that later he came to news that his pigeon has been arrested by Indian forces.

“I have almost 250 pigeons and have been keeping pigeons for the last 30 years or so. I just want my Golden Madi back so that she can participate in pigeon competition due to take place on Thursday.”

Talking about the competition he said that the competition takes place twice a year and the winner is the one whose pigeon flies the longest time. “We have been training the pigeons for the last one month. I was so sure of winning this competition and prize money with Golden Madi flying.”

Habibullah said the pigeon’s breed has the ability to fly for 12 to 13 hours at a stretch.

Explaining the code attached to the bird’s foot that Indian officials are investigating, he said owners attach contact numbers to pigeons’ feet so that people could return them.

“Golden Madi also have a ring attached to her foot with my contact number inscribed on it. All Indian forces have to do is add dialing code 0092 before the number and they can ascertain that she is my pet and not a spy.”

This is not the first time a pigeon flying from Pakistan has landed in trouble with Indian officials.

In May 2015, a white pigeon was arrested after it was spotted by a 14-year-old boy in a village close to the border.

And in October 2016, another pigeon was taken into custody after it was found with a note threatening the Indian prime minister.

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