Binish Thomas (Sub-Editor)
The HAL police on Wednesday registered an FIR against a group of residents of Gururaja Layout for manhandling a woman for feeding stray dogs.
Based on the complaint filed by Annie George,the police have booked the residents under section 351 (criminal intimidation ),352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace) and section 74 ( intentional insult to a woman at public places ) of BNS.
The victim,resident of Basavanagar was feeding the stray dogs in and around the area for the last 10 years .
On Tuesday night she had carried the food and feeding four stray dogs at Gururaja layout when the residents comprising of men and women confronted her objecting to feeding the dogs.
The residents become unruly when Ms.George tried to reason with them and they snatched her bike keys and mobile phone.The accused smashed her mobile phone on the ground and manhandled her. .
They even threatened to beat her up and the dogs if she continue to feed the stray dogs,she said in her complaint.
Scared victim managed to alert the control room and reported the matter before approaching the station with a complaint.
Taking a serious note on this,Tarun Agarwal,President SAS (society for Animal Safety) -Karnataka ,expressed concern over the safety of feeding community .
“The attack,compounded by the lack of police response, underscores the urgent need for stronger protection for those selflessly caring for street animals.
This incident not only reflects a disregard for public safety but also highlights the growing challenge faced by compassionate citizens.
The police should ensure Hoysala units are dispatched when such cases arise, providing protection against any threats or hindrances to feeding community dogs. Authorities must act swiftly and justly to address such acts of aggression”. .
The police have summoned the residents for questioning for further action.
