Dog sustains burns, loses eye as woman hurls acid for chasing cats
Mumbai, August 18: A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in Malvani, Malad, as a stray dog named Brownie faced immense suffering after a 35-year-old woman, identified as Sabista Ansari, allegedly hurled acid on him. The cruel act was reportedly a retaliation against the dog for 'troubling' the cats she cared for in her building.
Brownie endured the loss of an eye and severe burn injuries due to the acid attack. The gruesome incident was captured by CCTV cameras within the housing society and subsequently led to an FIR being registered against Ansari at the Malvani police station. The complaint was lodged by the housing society's chairman.
Jaya Bhattacharya, a TV actor, along with her team, rescued Brownie and took him to her NGO, Thank You Earth, which provides care and treatment for animals in distress. Brownie is currently undergoing treatment at their medical center.
The incident came to light when Brownie's barking was heard loudly, and it was discovered that he had suffered a vicious attack. An ambulance was dispatched, and it was suspected that acid had been used in the assault.
The CCTV footage revealed that Ansari, allegedly a cat feeder within the building, threw acid on Brownie from a bottle, causing him significant harm. Despite the evidence, she reportedly denied the act to the police.
An FIR was registered against Ansari under Section 429 of IPC (mischief by killing or maiming cattle or any animal), section 11 (1) of the prevention of cruelty to animals act (treating animals cruelly), and Section 119 of the Maharashtra Police act (Punishment for cruelty to animals).
Balasaheb Tukaram Bhagat, who filed the complaint, stated that Brownie had been living in the building for five years, and residents often fed him. The attack was allegedly triggered because Brownie interacted with and chased the cats Ansari cared for.
Saakshi Teckchandani, founder of Planet for Plants and Animals (PPA) India, denounced the incident, emphasizing that both dogs and cats deserve equal care and respect. Teckchandani suggested seeking professional help, like a dog behaviorist, to address any concerns, rather than resorting to cruelty.
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- ANI
