Sexually-assaulted dog finds friends in Narayan Peth residents

After a beastly act by one of their own, here's a display of human kindness by residents of Narayan Peth. MiD DAY had reported yesterday (‘Man arrested for having sex with stray dog') about the diabolical performance of 52-year-old Hanumant Dattappa Mane.u00a0Unsettled by the episode, the canine has now been provided shelter by locals. Initial medical reports suggest the animal has many internal injuries.

Among friends: The animal -- named Rani by its newfound friends -- was initially refusing food as it was traumatised. Preliminary medical reports suggest Rani has internal injuries in her private parts.

While it was undergoing medical care, the dog was provided a home by Manoj Oswal. The animal -- named Rani by its newfound friends -- was refusing food as it was traumatised. When Dhanashri Rajput of Umashankar Complex heard about its condition, along with some neighbours, she offered to take Rani into her home and take care of her.

The locked room where the dog was sexually assaulted on Sunday. Pics/Krunal Gosavi

"Though this dog is not a pet, it, along with a few other strays, have been living in the area for the past 2 years. We have been feeding them. Since this dreadful incident two days ago, we were disturbed, and when we got to know that this dog was not having any food, I, along with other residents, decided to bring it back to the area. We had the courage to take this positive step because the assaulter is in police custody now. As the dog is now with friends, it is eating properly," said Rajput.

In good hands: Rani has been adopted by Narayan Peth residents; (inset) the spot where the crime was committed. Pics/Krunal Gosavi

Vaishnavi Mupid, who played a major part in registering the FIR against Mane, said, "When people had gone to file a case against the accused, police officers were initially not to keen on registering an FIR. But, after we contacted senior officers, the case was finally lodged. I wish crimes against animals are taken more seriously by citizens and cops."

Meanwhile, when MiD DAY contacted some social organisations, they said they were prepared to arrange an adoption procedure for Rani. Manjiree Patwardhan, an animal rights activist and member of the group ‘Animal Friends' (Kalyaninagar), said, "We are ready to take steps for the dog's adoption. But, for that, the animal should have medical reports, declaring it physically fit. We will also have to look into the legality of the matter before going forward."

Whilst the canine is now living in a friendly environment, its medical reports are yet to come. LA Pathan, officer from Vishrambaug police station, who is in-charge of the case, informed, "Medical tests were done by the PMC-run veterinary hospital of Aundh. We are waiting for the reports, while the accused is in our custody. If any social organisation or any individual is ready to adopt the dog, they are welcome to do it, and won't face any legal impediments from our side."