Tue Nov 12 06:28:58 UTC 2024: ## Stray Dogs Kill Toddler in Andhra Pradesh, Sparking Outrage

**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh (November 12, 2024):** A two-year-old boy was tragically killed by a pack of stray dogs in the village of Penuganchiprolu in NTR district on Monday evening. The victim, Balathoti Prem Kumar, was playing in front of his house when he was attacked by approximately ten dogs. Despite attempts to save him, the boy died while being transported to the hospital.

The incident has sparked outrage and calls for action against the growing stray dog population in the area. Local residents, including the boy’s parents, have expressed their frustration over the lack of measures to control the dogs.

“There are many stray dogs in the village. I chased the dogs several times, but this time they killed my son,” said B. Gopala Rao, the boy’s father, overcome with grief. His wife, Nagarani, recounted hearing her son’s cries and witnessing the dogs attacking him.

Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath has expressed condolences to the family and has directed the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) and the Veterinary Department to address the dog menace in the district. The State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) Chairman, Kesali Appa Rao, has also expressed shock and ordered the VMC to submit a report on the incident.

The SCPCR will be conducting an inquiry into the tragedy, citing similar incidents in Srikakulam and Palakonda. Dr. Appa Rao has stressed the need for immediate action from Panchayat Raj and Municipal officials to prevent further attacks.

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