In a shocking case of animal cruelty that has sparked outrage across social media and beyond, Jhansi police have arrested three men for allegedly tying a live rat with a rope, pouring an inflammable substance on it, and setting it on fire. The disturbing incident came to light after a video of the act went viral on social media, prompting swift police action and widespread condemnation.
The incident, which took place in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, has sent shockwaves across the country, with animal rights activists, celebrities and ordinary citizens alike condemning the brutality of the act. As of November 2, 2026, three of the four accused have been arrested, while one remains absconding.
What Exactly Happened: The Disturbing Details
According to the viral video and police investigation, the accused men tied a live rat with a rope, hung it at a gate, poured petrol or another inflammable substance on it, and then set it on fire. The entire act was filmed by the accused themselves and posted on social media.
The video shows the rat struggling and suffering as it burns, a sight that has left viewers horrified and angry. The fact that the accused not only committed the act but also filmed and shared it themselves has added another layer of shock to the case, raising questions about their mindset and the casualness with which they treated the animal’s suffering.
How the Rat Video Went Viral and Reached Police
The accused had filmed the entire incident and posted it on social media themselves, apparently without realising the consequences of their actions. The video quickly went viral, reaching thousands of viewers within hours.
As the video spread, it eventually reached the Jhansi police, who took cognisance of the matter. After investigating and gathering details of the accused from the video, the Kotwali police registered a case on the complaint of Sub-Inspector Rohit Kumar.
Who Are the Accused: Names and Arrests
Police have identified four men in connection with the case: Junaid Qureshi, Jishan Qureshi, Ashif Qureshi and Shafique Qureshi.
Of these, three — Junaid Qureshi, Ashif Qureshi and Shafique Qureshi — have been arrested by the Kotwali police. The fourth accused, Jishan Qureshi, remains absconding, and police are actively searching for him.
Kotwal Anjan Kumar confirmed the arrests, stating that the three accused have been produced in court.
Legal Action: FIR and Sections Invoked
The Kotwali police registered a case against all four accused under Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), based on the complaint filed by Sub-Inspector Rohit Kumar and the available video evidence.
The FIR has been registered as case number 319/26 at the Kotwali police station.
Section 325 of the BNS deals with mischief by killing or maiming animals, which covers acts of cruelty towards animals, including burning, poisoning or mutilating them.
Police Statement and Official Response
Kotwal Anjan Kumar, the station house officer of Kotwali police station, confirmed that a case was registered based on the viral video and that three accused have been arrested and produced in court. He also confirmed that the fourth accused, Jishan Qureshi, is absconding and being actively searched for.
The police have made it clear that they are taking the matter seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation into the case.
Public Outrage and Social Media Reaction
The viral video has sparked massive outrage across social media, with users condemning the brutality of the act and demanding strict punishment for the accused. Many have called for stronger animal cruelty laws in India, arguing that the current legal framework is not deterrent enough.
Animal rights activists have also weighed in, highlighting that such acts of cruelty are not isolated incidents and calling for better enforcement of existing laws.
The Bigger Picture: Animal Cruelty Laws in India
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, acts of animal cruelty are punishable, but the penalties are often criticised as being too lenient. Section 325 of the BNS, under which this case has been registered, provides for stricter punishment compared to the older Act.
Activists have long argued that India needs stronger animal cruelty laws with harsher penalties to act as a real deterrent against such acts. This case has once again brought that debate to the forefront.
What Happens Next
With three of the four accused already arrested and produced in court, the case is now in the legal process. The fourth accused, Jishan Qureshi, remains absconding, and police are actively searching for him.
The investigation is ongoing, and depending on the evidence gathered, further charges or sections may be added. The case is likely to attract continued public and media attention as it moves through the legal system.
Why This Case Matters
Beyond the immediate shock value, this case highlights a larger issue — the treatment of animals in India and the adequacy of existing laws to protect them. The fact that the accused filmed and shared the act themselves shows a level of brazenness that has shocked even seasoned observers.
As the case moves forward, it is likely to reignite the debate on strengthening animal cruelty laws in India and ensuring that such acts are met with real consequences.
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