Patiala Couple Injured in Pitbull Attack; Mayor Proposes Ban on Aggressive Breeds
A couple was injured after being attacked by a pitbull dog in the Ghuman Nagar area of Patiala on Tuesday evening. The incident came to light after purported CCTV footage of the attack circulated widely on social media, raising concerns about public safety.
According to the victims, Ankit Sabharwal and his wife Shifali, residents of Patiala, had gone to Ghuman Nagar along with a property dealer to see a house for rent. When the gate of the property was opened, a pitbull rushed out and attacked the couple. Shifali sustained severe injuries to her arm and other parts of her body, which required surgery. She is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital. Ankit also received deep bite wounds on his legs and back while trying to shield his wife.
The CCTV footage, which could not be independently verified, shows the dog attacking the couple as nearby residents attempt to intervene. A woman is seen coming out of the house with a stick, but the animal does not relent. Several others then approach with sticks and manage to pull the injured couple away from the dog.
Ankit said the police have been informed and action has been sought against those responsible for allowing the dog to roam freely. Police have not yet issued a statement on the matter.
In response to the incident, Patiala Mayor Kundan Gogia told PTI that keeping aggressive dog breeds as pets would be banned in the city. He said the matter would be discussed at a House meeting of the municipal corporation, and a special resolution would be considered. This statement indicates a proposed measure rather than an immediate change in law.
The attack has drawn renewed attention to dog-related incidents in the city. Earlier, on August 9, a girl was reportedly attacked by a stray dog in Guru Nanak Nagar. Those cases remain under investigation.
Local residents have expressed concern over the presence of aggressive dogs in residential areas. Some have called for stricter enforcement of pet ownership rules and better management of stray animals. Others have urged the municipal corporation to formulate a clear policy regarding breeds considered dangerous.
As the couple recovers, the incident underscores the need for a balanced approach that ensures public safety while also respecting responsible pet ownership. The proposed ban, if adopted, would require careful implementation, including clear definitions of aggressive breeds and procedures for handling existing pets.
