11‑Year‑Old Boy Attacked by Pit Bull Inside Auto in Mumbai, Owner Arrested

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A 43-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly releasing his pet Pit Bull on an 11-year-old boy in Mumbai’s Mankhurd area. The disturbing incident, captured on video, shows the dog attacking the child inside a parked auto-rickshaw as the accused, Sohail Hasan Khan, reportedly laughs during the assault.

The video, which quickly spread across social media platforms, sparked public outrage and led to swift police action. In the clip, the child is seen sitting in the rickshaw when the unleashed Pit Bull lunges at him and bites him on the chin. According to reports, the boy managed to escape, but not before sustaining injuries.

The boy later told local media, “The dog bit me. I ran away. He even tore my clothes.” Witnesses alleged that Khan and others present laughed instead of helping.

The incident took place on the evening of July 17, and a police complaint was filed by the child’s father the following day. Based on the complaint and video evidence, Khan was arrested and later released on notice. Authorities have charged him under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including those related to negligence and harm caused by dangerous animals.

A senior police officer confirmed that Khan was booked under sections 125 (causing simple hurt), 125A (using a dangerous animal to cause harm), and 291 (negligent handling of an animal) of the new criminal code. Police also said the investigation is ongoing.

Animal experts and safety advocates have renewed calls for stricter regulation of dangerous dog breeds following the incident. Pit Bulls are among the breeds recommended for restriction by the central government in 2024. However, that move has faced legal opposition and remains unresolved in the courts.

The Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has taken note of the incident and has called for a report from the police, while public concern over pet safety and responsible ownership continues to rise.