Bengaluru police on Sunday arrested a 29-year-old woman for brutally killing a pet dog in an elevator. The incident came to light the following day after CCTV footage was reviewed and the clip quickly went viral on social media.
According to a Deccan Herald report quoting a police official, Rashika KR, an MBA student and pet owner, hired Pushpalatha, a 29-year-old native of Tamil Nadu, about a month ago to take care of her pets.
Pushpalatha was paid ₹23,000 per month and provided accommodation in the same apartment complex, the report said.
On Saturday, Pushpalatha took two pets for a walk. On the way back, she entered the elevator and allegedly killed one of them, Goosi, by swinging him violently against the wall of the elevator. After the crime, she allegedly started crying and returned to the apartment.
According to a social media post by Poojary’s friend, Shradha Gowda, the accused initially tried to cover up the crime. Gowda wrote: “She came back from her walk and dragged Goofy’s lifeless body, showing no remorse or emotion. She told my friend that Goofy died suddenly, without any warning.”
What did the defendant say?
During questioning, Pushpalatha said she was frustrated by the pet’s constant barking. However, police investigation revealed that she had recently stolen valuables from Rashika’s house and was warned not to repeat such behaviour. Authorities suspect the pet’s killing may have been an act of revenge.
Pushpalatha is still under further questioning and a case has been registered against her under the relevant provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
What is the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960?
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960 is a law that aims to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals. Its main aim is to promote animal welfare, regulate the treatment of animals and punish acts of cruelty.
She returned from her walk and dragged Goofy’s limp body, showing no remorse or emotion.
Prohibited acts include abusing or beating animals, using animals for fighting or other violent purposes, and neglecting or abandoning sick or injured animals.
(With inputs from Deccan Herald)
