A shocking incident in Patiala, Punjab, has renewed concerns over the safety of aggressive dog breeds after a couple was viciously attacked by a Pitbull while viewing a house for rent. Shifali Sabharwal, the woman, suffered extensive injuries necessitating plastic surgery, while her husband, Ankit Sabharwal, was also bitten during his attempt to rescue her.
Horrific Attack Unfolds During House Viewing
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening in Patiala’s Ghuman Nagar area. Ankit and Shifali Sabharwal, accompanied by a property dealer, had gone to inspect a rental property. According to Ankit, as the gate to the house was opened, a Pitbull suddenly lunged out, attacking Shifali. The dog severely mauled her arm and other parts of her body.
Shifali was rushed to a private hospital where she underwent surgery on her arms and legs and remains under observation. Ankit also sustained deep bite wounds on his legs and back, requiring multiple stitches. “I have received stitches all over my body. My wife has undergone surgery on her arms and legs. I want justice,” Ankit stated.
CCTV Footage Goes Viral, Police Investigate
CCTV footage of the terrifying attack quickly circulated on social media, showing the Pitbull repeatedly assaulting the couple as they struggled to escape. Several neighbors attempted to intervene, with one woman reportedly trying to fend off the animal with a stick. Eventually, multiple individuals managed to pull the injured couple away from the aggressive dog. The viral video has intensified public concern regarding uncontrolled pets in residential areas.
Patiala police have acknowledged the incident after the footage surfaced. DSP Jangjit Randhawa confirmed that the police verified the video and contacted the family. Further legal action is anticipated following the receipt of Shifali’s medical report. Authorities indicated that an FIR could be registered under Section 291 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for cases involving pet animal bites or injuries.
Mayor Proposes Ban on Aggressive Breeds
The attack has prompted a swift civic response. Patiala Mayor Kundan Gogia announced that the city would consider banning aggressive dog breeds as pets. A special resolution is expected to be discussed at an upcoming meeting of the municipal corporation House. This proposal comes amid rising concerns over dog attacks in the city; just days prior, on August 9, a girl was reportedly mauled by a stray dog in the Guru Nanak Nagar area.