In a heartbreaking incident, a four-year-old girl was mauled to death by a pack of stray dogs in Bassi Jalal village near Tanda, leaving her family devastated and raising fresh concerns over the growing stray dog menace in Punjab.
Cause of death
According to family members, the tragic incident occurred while they were working as labourers in a nearby village, transplanting paddy in the fields. The family said Gungun was resting under a tree close to the field while her parents were busy working. During this time, a group of stray dogs allegedly attacked the child. Hearing her cries, her mother rushed towards her, only to find the dogs mauling the four-year-old. By the time the family managed to chase the dogs away, the child had suffered multiple severe bite injuries across her body. She was immediately rushed for medical assistance, but succumbed to her injuries.
Family statements
The bereaved family said Gungun was their only child, and her death has left them shattered. They demanded immediate action from the authorities to tackle the growing menace of stray dogs, saying such incidents continue to put innocent lives at risk. The tragic incident has sparked fear among residents of the area, many of whom have urged the administration to launch a drive to control the stray dog population and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Police investigation
Police and local authorities are expected to initiate further action, while the child's death has once again highlighted concerns over public safety and the need for effective measures to address the stray dog problem in rural areas. An information from authorities was received that a similar case happened in the locality around 1-2 months ago and the girl died.
Appeal to the public and authorities
The grieving family has appealed to the local authorities to take immediate and effective steps to control the growing stray dog menace so that no other family has to endure such a tragedy. They said the loss of their only daughter has left them devastated and urged the administration to launch regular drives to remove aggressive stray dogs from residential areas and villages. The family also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and ensure that young children are not left unattended, especially in areas where stray dogs are frequently seen. They urged local residents to immediately report aggressive stray dogs to the concerned authorities so that timely action can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.