A 45-year-old theatre actor has been arrested after a disturbing incident in which he killed a live pig on stage and ate its meat during a Ramayana performance in Ganjam district, Odisha. The gruesome act, which took place on November 24 in Ralab village, sparked statewide outrage and drew condemnation from political figures and animal rights groups. The horrifying footage of the incident quickly went viral on social media.
Along with the actor, Bimbadhar Gouda, one of the event organizers, was also taken into custody. Gouda faces charges under the Wildlife Protection Act for causing animal cruelty. The police are also investigating others involved in the performance, including those who displayed snakes on stage, and they are expected to make further arrests soon.
Berhampur Divisional Forest Officer, Sunny Khokar, confirmed that the authorities were actively searching for the individuals who showcased snakes, a practice banned by the state government in 2023 under guidelines that prohibit public snake displays, even by certified handlers.
Hinjili police inspector Srinibas Sethy confirmed the arrest of the actor responsible for killing and consuming the pig, adding that the investigation into the broader issue is ongoing.
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