Mass Killing of Stray Dogs in Telangana: 300 Carcasses Found in Pit
In a shocking incident that has sparked outrage among animal rights activists, approximately 300 dog carcasses were discovered dumped in a pit in Jagtial district, Telangana. This latest case of alleged mass killing of strays brings the total number of stray dogs found dead in the state this month to nearly 900, highlighting a disturbing pattern of violence against animals.
Details of the Latest Incident in Pegadapally
The grim discovery occurred on Thursday in Pegadapally, a village located roughly 200km from Hyderabad. According to animal rights activists, the killings were allegedly carried out on orders from the village sarpanch, raising serious concerns about local governance and animal welfare.
Based on a complaint filed by Preethi Mudavath from the Stray Animal Foundation of India, police have registered an FIR against the village sarpanch and gram panchayat secretary, among others. The charges include sections under the BNS and Section 11(1)(a) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960, which deals with the killing and poisoning of animals by multiple persons.
Complaint and Investigation Process
Preethi Mudavath visited the village on Friday and filed the complaint after finding the carcasses near the boundary limit of the village. She told TOI that villagers informed her the lethal injections were administered by two women, indicating a coordinated effort in the mass killing.
The complainant described a harrowing scene: when they first saw the pit—allegedly dug to bury the carcasses—it was only half full. "But by evening, about 75% of the pit was filled with the bodies of dogs," Preethi said. She added that later, the bodies were transported with the help of gram panchayat workers in tractors and buried in a pit about two km from the village, suggesting an attempt to conceal the evidence.
Pattern of Mass Killings Across Telangana Districts
This incident is not isolated. At least three cases of mass killings of stray dogs have been reported from Kamareddy, Jagtial, Hanumakonda, and Ranga Reddy districts in the last few weeks. In most instances, FIRs were registered against newly-elected sarpanches and other representatives who allegedly ordered the killings to fulfil their poll promises.
- About 300 dogs were killed by administering lethal injections in Hanumakonda.
- Another 200 carcasses were found in Kamareddy.
- 100 carcasses were discovered in Ranga Reddy.
- Approximately 30 carcasses were found in Jagtial prior to this latest incident.
A police officer at Pegadapally police station confirmed, "We have registered a case and started our probe," indicating that investigations are underway to hold those responsible accountable.
Broader Implications and Animal Welfare Concerns
The repeated incidents of mass killings of stray dogs in Telangana raise critical questions about animal welfare policies and enforcement in the state. Animal rights activists argue that such actions not only violate legal provisions but also reflect a lack of humane approaches to managing stray populations.
As the total death toll approaches 900 this month, there is an urgent need for stricter implementation of animal protection laws and community awareness programs to prevent further atrocities. The involvement of local authorities in these cases underscores the importance of ethical governance and the protection of vulnerable animals.
