Illegal horse-carriage race in Mumbai raises concerns

MUMBAI: An illegal horse-carriage race held in the early hours of December 3 has come to light after a video titled “Mumbai Police Soti Rahi, Horse Riding Hoti Rahi” circulated on social media, raising concerns about public safety and animal cruelty.
The race reportedly began near a police petrol pump on Sahyadri Road in Ghatkopar East and proceeded towards Vikhroli.
The video, shared with the Pantnagar Police, showed a group of individuals racing horse-drawn carts on a public road at around 3am, endangering both participants and passersby.
Ravikiran Awad, a police officer with the Mill Special Squad attached to the Pantnagar Police, filed a formal complaint after verifying the footage.
Police have registered an offence under the BNS section of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, as well as charges related to endangering personal safety, rash and negligent behaviour and are investigating the case.
Initial investigations revealed that the race was organised without permission with participants gathering at Fatima Christian Community Hall in Ghatkopar West for pre-race planning.
Awad emphasised the negligence involved in such events, highlighting the potential harm to animals and the risks posed to public safety. He has urged legal action against the unknown organisers, cart drivers, and horse owners responsible.
Authorities have assured a thorough investigation into the incident. The event has sparked widespread public criticism, with many calling for stricter monitoring to prevent such activities and to enforce animal welfare laws more effectively.
Further updates on the investigation are awaited.