Chennai, 26 August (H.S.): A heated argument between a Chennai police constable and a woman feeding stray dogs on Thiruvanmiyur beach has sparked widespread controversy. The altercation, which was captured on video, shows the cop making a remark that has been widely criticized for its insensitive tone.

According to eyewitnesses, the woman and her aunt were feeding stray dogs on the beach when the cop, Karthik, approached them and rebuked them for creating a menace. The situation escalated when the cop made a comment about harassment happening when women step out late at night, which the woman took strong objection to. She questioned the cop's remark, asking him to repeat it, which he did, further fueling the controversy.

The video of the altercation went viral on social media, with many criticizing the cop's behavior and remark. The incident has raised concerns about the way police officers interact with citizens, particularly women, and has sparked a debate about the need for greater sensitivity and awareness.

The Animal Welfare Board of India has weighed in on the issue, stating that feeding stray dogs is a right guaranteed by the Constitution and that harassing or intimidating dog feeders is a crime. The incident has also highlighted the ongoing tensions over stray dog management in Chennai, with the Greater Chennai Corporation recently announcing plans to sterilize stray dogs in an effort to manage their population.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary