Tragic: 8-year-old boy dies after brutal stray dog attack in Punjabs Sultanpur Lodhi
A pack of seven to eight stray dogs allegedly mauled the child, leaving him grievously injured; and despite doctors’ efforts, the boy died due to excessive injuries and trauma
PTC Web Desk: In a heartbreaking incident, an eight-year-old boy who was critically injured in a stray dog attack in village Gillan near Sultanpur Lodhi, Punjab, has succumbed to his injuries. The child, identified as Suraj Kumar, was initially rushed to the Civil Hospital in Jalandhar after being referred from a local medical facility. However, he could not survive the severe wounds inflicted during the attack.
According to information received, a pack of seven to eight stray dogs allegedly mauled the child, leaving him grievously injured. Locals immediately arranged medical assistance, but his condition remained critical. Despite doctors’ efforts, the young boy died due to excessive injuries and trauma.
The tragic death has left the family devastated. Relatives were inconsolable and have appealed to the administration and the state government for justice and financial assistance. The incident has once again intensified concerns over the growing menace of stray dogs across Punjab.
This is not an isolated case. Several such incidents have been reported from different parts of the state, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of preventive measures and enforcement of existing laws.
Under the Punjab Municipal Act, 1911, it is the responsibility of local civic bodies to control dangerous animals and ensure public safety. Additionally, the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 mandate sterilisation, vaccination and where necessary, segregation of aggressive or rabid dogs. While the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 focuses on protecting animals from cruelty, safeguarding human life remains a constitutional priority.
The Supreme Court has repeatedly observed that the right to life and personal safety under Article 21 of the Constitution is a fundamental right of every citizen. Courts have also indicated that if administrative negligence leads to serious injury or death due to stray dog attacks, the local authorities concerned and state government may be held accountable and directed to provide compensation.
Despite clear legal provisions and judicial directions, recurring incidents continue to expose gaps in implementation at the ground level. The latest tragedy in Sultanpur Lodhi has once again put the spotlight on whether municipal authorities are effectively carrying out sterilisation drives, vaccination programmes and monitoring of aggressive stray animals.