FIR Filed Against Performer for Hen's Decapitation in Vizag

Synopsis
On March 21, police in Visakhapatnam filed an FIR against a dancer for gruesomely killing a hen during a performance. PETA India intervened after the incident went viral, emphasizing the importance of reporting animal cruelty.
Key Takeaways
- FIR filed against dancer for animal cruelty.
- PETA India played a crucial role in the investigation.
- Public urged to report animal abuse incidents.
- Research links animal cruelty to broader violence.
- Perpetrators should receive psychological counseling.
Visakhapatnam, March 21 (NationPress) Authorities in Andhra Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam district have filed a First Information Report (FIR) following an incident where a hen was brutally killed by having its head bitten off during a dance show.
The organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India collaborated with local volunteer Kotapalli Pramod Kumar and law enforcement to ensure the FIR was lodged.
This action was prompted by a viral video that circulated on social media, depicting an individual viciously killing a hen with his teeth during a dance performance in front of an audience.
The FIR has been filed at Gopalapatnam Police Station against performer Ashok and the event organizers, citing violations under sections 325, in conjunction with 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Section 11(1) of The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960.
The complainant informed police that he received a disturbing video via WhatsApp showing the accused savagely ripping the chicken's head off in a public setting during a local festival in Kotthapalem.
A similar incident took place in Anakapalli district last year, leading to an FIR following a complaint from PETA India.
According to PETA India Cruelty Response Coordinator Sinchana Subramanyan, “Individuals who mistreat animals often display a lack of respect for human life as well. To safeguard the community, it is crucial for the public to report instances of animal cruelty like this one.”
“We encourage anyone aware of animal cruelty, irrespective of the species involved, to inform local animal welfare organizations and the police,” Subramanyan added.
PETA India also advocates for psychological evaluations and counseling for animal abusers, as such behavior often reflects significant mental health issues.
The NGO states research indicates that those who engage in animal cruelty are frequently repeat offenders who may escalate to harming other animals, including humans.
A study published in the Forensic Research and Criminology International Journal reveals that “Individuals who commit animal cruelty are three times more likely to perpetrate other crimes, including murder, assault, and substance abuse.”