Pune Woman Assaulted for Feeding Stray Dogs, Sustains Multiple Injuries
Sangvi, 19th January 2025: A 34-year-old woman suffered injuries to her face, head, and jaw after being allegedly attacked by a group of individuals while feeding stray dogs near Kashid Park in Pimple Saudagar on January 14 at around 10:30 p.m.
As per the FIR filed at Sangvi Police Station under Pimpri Chinchwad police, the victim was approached by two women who objected to her feeding the dogs. The argument quickly escalated as three other individuals joined the confrontation. The complainant alleged that her hair was pulled, and her face scratched during the assault. Furthermore, one man reportedly snatched her phone, while another struck her with a stick.
A medical examination of the victim revealed multiple injuries, including abrasions on her ear, cheek, and chin, as well as blunt trauma to the back of her head and right wrist.
Animal welfare activist Padmini Stump, founder of the Mission Possible Foundation, accompanied the victim along with other animal rights advocates from Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad to file the FIR.
The incident has been registered under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 189 (2), 189(4), 191(1), 191(2), 190, 75, 115(2), 118(1), 352, and 351(2).
Speaking about the case, Sub-Inspector Kiran Kanase of Sangvi Police Station said, “The woman was attacked outside a residential society in Pimple Saudagar while feeding stray dogs. As per the FIR, three men and two women were involved in the assault. We are thoroughly investigating the matter to ensure justice is served.”
The incident has sparked outrage among animal welfare groups, highlighting the importance of protecting both stray animals and those who care for them. The Supreme Court has previously ruled that stray dogs have the right to food and that citizens have the right to feed them.
