A 21-year-old man was arrested in Ahmedabad on Monday following widespread public outrage over a disturbing video that showed the brutal killing of a cat. The Vadaj police took swift action after the graphic footage circulated widely on social media platforms.
Incident Triggered by Attack on Pregnant Woman
The chain of events began on Sunday when the accused, identified as Rahul Dantani, allegedly lost his temper. The police report states that a cat attacked his 20-year-old wife, who is six months pregnant, when she offered it milk. Following the attack, the woman reportedly developed health complications and needed to consult a doctor.
Enraged by the incident, Dantani, along with two other individuals, took the cat to an open plot. This plot is owned by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and is located near the Sahaj Heights apartment complex. It was here that the alleged brutal act took place.
Graphic Viral Video Details the Cruelty
The video that sparked the investigation shows harrowing details. The accused can be seen transporting the cat in a sack on a two-wheeler. The footage then shows them repeatedly slamming the sack containing the cat onto the ground.
The cruelty escalated as the cat was pulled out from the sack. One of the individuals pinned the animal down by placing his leg on its neck. Another accused then struck the cat repeatedly with a large stone. The video also captures the accused kicking the helpless animal and posing for photographs beside its body. The cat succumbed to its severe injuries on the spot.
Police Action and Legal Charges
The viral video prompted immediate action. Viral Patel, a volunteer with an animal welfare organization, approached the Vadaj police station and filed a formal complaint. Police officers rushed to the location and confirmed the cat was dead.
Based on the complaint, the Vadaj police registered a First Information Report (FIR). The charges are serious and include sections from two key laws. The accused has been booked under Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for killing an animal. Additionally, a case has been registered under Section 11(1)(l) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
A police officer involved in the case stated that they took immediate cognizance of the viral video. A special team was formed to trace the individuals seen in the footage. Rahul Dantani was identified and arrested within a few hours of the complaint being lodged. The officer added that efforts are currently underway to identify and trace the other two suspects seen participating in the act.
The incident has ignited a strong reaction from local residents and animal rights activists across Ahmedabad, highlighting concerns over animal cruelty and swift justice.
