In a shocking incident from Telangana, police in Hanumakonda district have initiated legal action against nine people for the alleged mass killing of hundreds of stray dogs. The accused include the elected heads of two villages and other local officials, highlighting a severe conflict between public nuisance concerns and animal welfare laws.
Complaint Reveals Disturbing Details
The case came to light on Sunday, January 7, 2024, after a formal complaint was lodged with the Shayampet police. The complaint was filed by A Goutham, representing the Stray Animal Foundation of India, an NGO based in Karimnagar district.
Goutham alleged that approximately 300 stray dogs were systematically killed within the limits of Shayampet and Arepally gram panchayats. The method used was the administration of lethal injections by two hired individuals. The alleged killings are said to have occurred over a short period between January 6 and January 8.
Police Action and Village Defense
Following the complaint, police and veterinary doctors visited the villages to conduct postmortems on the buried carcasses. Based on the findings, the Parkal ACP Satishbabu confirmed that cases have been registered.
The accused include:
- The sarpanches of Shayampet and Arepally villages.
- The husbands of both sarpanches.
- A deputy sarpanch.
- Two village secretaries.
- Two daily wage labourers allegedly hired for the act.
They have been booked under the stringent Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
However, sources within the villages presented a contrasting viewpoint. Village elders reportedly questioned the basis of the complaint. They claimed the drastic action was a response to persistent public demand, especially highlighted during recent sarpanch elections, as the growing stray dog population had become a significant nuisance and safety concern for residents.
Broader Demand for Humane Solutions
Beyond seeking action against the perpetrators, the complainant, A Goutham, has urged the government to implement sustainable and humane measures to manage the stray animal crisis. The demands focus on official programs for:
- Animal Birth Control (ABC)
- Sterilisation drives
- Vaccination campaigns
This incident underscores the critical need for systematic, government-led interventions to address stray dog populations, rather than illegal and cruel methods that violate national law. The police investigation is ongoing.
