Kolkata: A disturbing incident on the Kalyani Expressway in West Bengal has sparked widespread outrage after a couple riding a motorbike was allegedly seen forcing a dog to run alongside their moving vehicle while holding it with a leash tied around its neck.
The incident reportedly came to light after a video of the act began circulating on social media platforms, drawing sharp criticism from animal welfare activists and members of the public. The footage appears to show a motorcycle travelling along the expressway while a dog runs beside it, struggling to keep pace as it is restrained by a leash.
Animal rights supporters have described the act as a clear case of cruelty and have urged authorities to identify the individuals involved and take appropriate legal action.
Incident caught on camera
According to initial reports, the incident took place on the busy Kalyani Expressway, a major road connecting Kolkata with several towns in North 24 Parganas and Nadia districts.
In the widely shared video clip, a man and a woman can be seen riding a motorbike while a dog runs on the road next to the vehicle. The dog appears to be attached to a leash that is being held by one of the riders.
Observers noted that the dog seemed to be struggling to keep up with the speed of the motorcycle, raising concerns that the animal could have suffered physical distress or injury.
Several motorists who witnessed the incident reportedly slowed down to film the act, which later led to the footage spreading rapidly online.
Public anger and calls for action
The video triggered strong reactions on social media, with many users expressing anger over the treatment of the animal. Animal lovers and activists condemned the act and called for strict punishment under animal protection laws.
Many commentators said forcing a dog to run alongside a moving motorcycle on a busy expressway could lead to serious injury or even death for the animal. The risk is especially high because of speeding vehicles and heavy traffic on the highway.
Animal welfare groups emphasised that pets should be transported safely using proper methods such as pet carriers or by allowing the animal to sit securely on the vehicle if conditions permit.
Legal provisions against animal cruelty
Under India’s animal protection laws, causing unnecessary pain or suffering to animals is considered an offence.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, prohibits acts that subject animals to cruelty, neglect or harmful treatment. Violations of the law can lead to penalties, including fines and other legal action depending on the severity of the offence.
Animal welfare advocates have urged authorities to investigate the incident and determine whether the individuals involved violated the law.
Safety risks for animals and motorists
Experts point out that forcing an animal to run beside a moving vehicle is dangerous not only for the animal but also for other road users.
If the dog becomes exhausted, loses balance or gets tangled in the leash, it could fall onto the road and cause a traffic accident. Such incidents can also endanger riders, pedestrians and other vehicles travelling on the road.
Veterinarians and animal behaviour specialists say dogs can quickly suffer from fatigue, dehydration or injury when forced to run continuously, particularly on hot road surfaces.
They stress that animals should never be made to run alongside fast-moving vehicles and must be transported in a safe and humane manner.
Growing awareness about animal welfare
The incident has once again highlighted the need for greater awareness about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare in India.
Animal welfare organisations frequently conduct campaigns to educate the public about humane treatment of animals and the legal consequences of cruelty.
Many activists say that social media plays an important role in bringing such incidents to public attention and encouraging authorities to take action.
Conclusion
The video from the Kalyani Expressway has sparked a wider debate about animal cruelty and responsible behaviour toward pets.
Animal welfare activists have urged authorities to investigate the incident and take necessary legal action if wrongdoing is established. They also called on the public to report similar acts of cruelty and promote humane treatment of animals in everyday life.