Lucknow police have arrested a man in a deeply disturbing case of animal cruelty that has shocked the city and animal rights activists across the country. The accused, whose identity has not been officially disclosed, allegedly committed a bestial act on a stray dog while his friend recorded the incident on a mobile phone.
Incident That Sparked Outrage
According to police reports, the incident took place in a residential area of Lucknow earlier this week. Locals claim that the accused lured the dog to a secluded spot before engaging in the act. His friend, instead of stopping him, filmed the entire incident and allegedly shared the video on social media.
The video quickly went viral, triggering massive public outrage and prompting immediate action from law enforcement and animal welfare groups.
Police Action and Charges Filed
Upon receiving multiple complaints from citizens and activists, the Lucknow Police tracked down the accused with the help of the viral footage. Both the man and his friend, who recorded the video, were detained.
Officials confirmed that the primary accused has been booked under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (unnatural offences) and relevant sections of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The friend who filmed the crime is also facing legal action for abetment and failing to report the offence.
Animal Welfare Groups Step In
Several NGOs and activists, including members of the People for Animals (PFA), have demanded the harshest possible punishment for the culprits. They have also urged authorities to take stronger steps to prevent such acts by increasing penalties for animal abuse.
Speaking to the media, an activist said,
“This is not just a case of animal cruelty; it’s a reflection of deep moral decay. If someone can harm a helpless animal in such a way, they pose a danger to society at large.”
The Dog’s Condition
The stray dog involved in the incident was rescued and is currently under veterinary care. According to vets, the animal is traumatised but is expected to recover physically. However, activists stress that psychological damage to animals in such cases can be long-lasting.
Legal Loopholes and Public Demand for Stricter Laws
This incident has reignited the debate over India’s outdated animal cruelty laws, which many believe are too lenient to deter offenders. Currently, most provisions under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act carry fines as low as ₹50 for certain offences—a penalty activists say is meaningless.
Social media is flooded with posts demanding amendments to the Act, making such crimes non-bailable and punishable with longer prison terms.
A Call for Vigilance
Authorities have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any acts of animal abuse immediately. They have also urged people not to share such videos online, as doing so may unintentionally spread harmful content and violate legal guidelines.
This shocking case from Lucknow is a grim reminder of the cruelty animals face and the urgent need for stronger laws, better enforcement, and greater public awareness. While the accused is now in custody, activists insist that the real justice will be in seeing India adopt stricter, more compassionate policies to protect its voiceless citizens.
