Elderly Woman Fights for Life After Dog Attack
A 66-year-old woman from Dehradun is in critical condition after being severely attacked by two Rottweilers. The incident, which occurred early Sunday morning, has raised serious concerns about the ownership and control of dangerous dog breeds in residential areas.
Incident Details
Kaushalya Devi, a resident of the Rajpur area, was on her way to a nearby temple around 4 a.m. when two Rottweilers suddenly attacked her. The dogs reportedly jumped over a boundary wall and mauled her while she was walking alone.
According to police, the Rottweilers belonged to a man named Nafees Ahmed but were being cared for at the home of his friend, Mohammed Zaid. At the time of the attack, Zaid was not home. Only a domestic worker was present, who managed to pull the dogs away and bring them inside but not before serious damage was done.
Nature of Injuries
Kaushalya Devi sustained multiple life-threatening injuries in the attack. These include:
- Two fractured bones
- Deep cuts and lacerations on the head, arms, and legs
- Nearly 200 stitches were required to close her wounds
- Her ear was almost torn off, requiring surgical repair
She was first admitted to Shri Mahant Indresh Hospital, where she received emergency care. Later, she was referred to another hospital for specialised surgery on her hand and ear. Her condition remains critical, and doctors are monitoring her closely.
Legal Action Taken
Police have begun an investigation. Nafees Ahmed, the owner of the dogs, has been detained for questioning. His friend Mohammed Zaid has been booked under Section 291 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for negligent handling of animals.
Initial findings show that Ahmed did not have the necessary license from the Dehradun Municipal Corporation (DMC) to keep Rottweilers as pets. Authorities have indicated that additional charges may be added depending on the victim’s statement, once she is medically stable.
Previous Incidents and Community Reaction
Residents revealed that this was not the first time the dogs had behaved aggressively. According to ward corporator Sanjay Nautiyal, the same Rottweilers had allegedly attacked at least four other people in the past. In those cases, the owner reportedly threatened victims or offered money to avoid legal complaints.
This latest attack has caused widespread anger in the community. Residents and local leaders have demanded that strict action be taken against both the dog owner and the caretaker.
Government Policy on Dangerous Breeds
The Central Government’s Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy has already banned the import and breeding of several aggressive dog breeds, including:
- Rottweiler
- Cane Corso
- Kangal
- Pitbull & Pitbull Terrier
- Dogo Argentino
- Wolfdog
Authorities have reminded residents that if anyone feels threatened by such pets in their neighbourhood, they should immediately contact the police by calling 112, visiting a nearby police station, or reaching out to the Dehradun Municipal Corporation.
Conclusion
This tragic case highlights the dangers of keeping aggressive dog breeds in residential areas without proper care, control, or legal compliance. As Kaushalya Devi continues to fight for her life, her case has sparked an urgent discussion on public safety, responsible pet ownership, and stricter enforcement of animal control laws.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
