A shocking incident from Delhi’s Shahdara area has sparked nationwide outrage after a man was arrested for allegedly sexually abusing several stray dogs. The accused, identified as Naushad, was taken into custody by the Delhi Police following complaints from an animal welfare organization and disturbing videos that circulated online.
Residents of Kailash Nagar, Shahdara, had long suspected something was amiss when they noticed Naushad frequently wandering the streets with stray dogs. However, the full extent of his actions only came to light after a viral video showed him being confronted and beaten by local residents and animal activists. In the footage, Naushad appears to confess to sexually abusing at least six dogs, though some reports suggest the number could be as high as thirteen.
The disturbing videos, initially shared by animal rights activists, quickly went viral on social media platforms. The public response was immediate and intense, prompting the Delhi Police to arrest Naushad and initiate a formal investigation.
Naushad reportedly had ties with an NGO involved in rescuing and sterilizing stray dogs. This connection possibly gave him easy access to animals. The same NGO, after noticing suspicious behavior, was instrumental in alerting authorities and sharing evidence.
Delhi Police registered a case under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. Authorities are now also investigating whether the videos were created or distributed online for views or profit, which may bring additional cybercrime charges.
Animal rights groups and citizens across Delhi have expressed horror and anger. Key demands include:
Social media has been flooded with hashtags such as #JusticeForStrays and #DelhiAnimalAbuse, with people urging lawmakers to take swift action.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, has long been criticized for offering minimal penalties. Activists argue that without serious legal reform, cases like this will continue to surface. This incident has reignited public discourse around modernizing animal protection laws in India.
Residents of Shahdara have come forward, expressing guilt and disbelief. “We saw him with the dogs every day. We never imagined he could do something this horrific,” one local told NCR Guide. The community is now taking steps to monitor stray dog welfare and report suspicious behavior.
Animal welfare organizations are calling for immediate government action:
This tragic and deeply disturbing case highlights the vulnerability of India’s stray animal population and the gaps in legal enforcement. It’s a reminder that protecting animals is not just a legal issue—it’s a moral one. Stronger laws, active citizen participation, and transparent NGO oversight are essential moving forward.
Part of the NCR Guide editorial team, covering news, real estate, food and lifestyle across Delhi NCR.
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