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.
What Happened in Delhi’s Shahdara?
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.
How a Viral Video Triggered Swift Action
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.
Connection to an Animal Welfare NGO Raises Questions
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.
What Laws Were Invoked in the Case?
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.
Shock and Anger Across Delhi: Activists Demand Change
Animal rights groups and citizens across Delhi have expressed horror and anger. Key demands include:
- Immediate legal reform to include stricter punishments for animal sexual abuse
- A national database of animal abusers
- Stronger enforcement and faster trials in animal cruelty cases
Social media has been flooded with hashtags such as #JusticeForStrays and #DelhiAnimalAbuse, with people urging lawmakers to take swift action.
Why India’s Animal Welfare Laws Fall Short
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.
Local Voices Speak Out: A Wake-Up Call for Communities
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.
What Needs to Be Done: A Roadmap for Prevention
Animal welfare organizations are calling for immediate government action:
- Dedicated hotlines to report animal cruelty
- Regular background checks for NGO volunteers
- Mandatory psychological evaluation and counseling for convicted abusers
- Awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and localities
Final Thoughts: A Call for Accountability and Compassion
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.