TMC MP Mahua Moitra moves Delhi high court against ex-partner seeking custody of pet Rottweiler 'Henry'
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 19, 2026
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Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra has taken an unusual step by filing a petition in the Delhi High Court seeking custody of her pet Rottweiler, Henry. This legal battle began after a Saket court denied her request for 10-day custody of the dog every month in November 2023. Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri has issued a notice to Moitra's ex-partner and advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, who is contesting the plea. The matter will be heard on April 29.
Moitra argues that Henry primarily resides with her, except when she travels for official duties. During such periods, the dog stays with Dehadrai. She claims the lower court's order is "bad in law and fact," emphasizing her right to custody based on the dog's primary residence. Meanwhile, Dehadrai counters that he purchased Henry in 2021 for Rs 75,000 and has been caring for him since he was 40 days old. He argues that Moitra trespassed into his residence and took Henry without consent.
The custody dispute over Henry stems from a personal fallout between Moitra and Dehadrai, which escalated after Dehadrai's public allegations against her in the "cash-for-query" controversy. Both parties have accused each other of unlawfully taking the dog, leading to multiple legal confrontations. The Saket court previously issued a gag order to prevent further publicity about the case, but Dehadrai challenged this, claiming it stifled his ability to disclose the existence of the case.
This unusual legal battle highlights the complexities of pet custody disputes, particularly when involving high-profile individuals. It raises questions about property rights and emotional bonds with pets, making it a unique and compelling story in the realm of legal and human interest news. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases in India.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026