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Crime
Bihar Police Order DNA Test to Resolve Buffalo Ownership Dispute
✍️ The Economic Times
🗓 28 Aug 2026, 12:17 PM
👁 2
The Bihar police have directed a DNA test to determine the rightful owner of a buffalo involved in a property dispute, marking an unusual step in livestock ownership cases.
Patna, Bihar – In an atypical move, local police have ordered a DNA analysis to settle a long‑running dispute over the ownership of a buffalo. The animal became the center of a property conflict between two parties who each claim the livestock as part of their assets.
Authorities said the DNA test will compare the buffalo’s genetic material with samples taken from the animals owned by the claimants, aiming to provide an objective basis for the decision. Police officials emphasized that the step is intended to prevent escalation and ensure a legally sound resolution.
The case highlights the growing complexity of rural property disputes, where livestock often represents significant economic value. While the test results are pending, the police have urged both sides to refrain from any further confrontation until a scientific verdict is reached.
Legal experts note that using DNA evidence in civil ownership matters is rare in India, but it may set a precedent for future disputes involving valuable animals.
The investigation remains under the jurisdiction of the Bihar police, and further updates will be provided once the laboratory findings are available.
Authorities said the DNA test will compare the buffalo’s genetic material with samples taken from the animals owned by the claimants, aiming to provide an objective basis for the decision. Police officials emphasized that the step is intended to prevent escalation and ensure a legally sound resolution.
The case highlights the growing complexity of rural property disputes, where livestock often represents significant economic value. While the test results are pending, the police have urged both sides to refrain from any further confrontation until a scientific verdict is reached.
Legal experts note that using DNA evidence in civil ownership matters is rare in India, but it may set a precedent for future disputes involving valuable animals.
The investigation remains under the jurisdiction of the Bihar police, and further updates will be provided once the laboratory findings are available.