A shocking case of animal cruelty in southern India has sparked public outrage after a 29-year-old dog nanny was caught on surveillance footage violently killing a puppy in an elevator. The incident took place in the upscale Bagalur area of northern Bengaluru (Bangalore) on October 31. The woman, identified as Pushpalatha, reportedly became enraged by the dog’s barking, grabbed the small white puppy named Goosi, and hurled it against the elevator wall, killing it instantly. The horrifying act was captured in the building’s CCTV footage.
According to police reports, Pushpalatha later dragged the puppy’s lifeless body out of the elevator and lied to the pet owner, claiming that the dog had been hit by a car. Suspicious of her inconsistent story, the owner requested the building management to review the CCTV footage — only to discover the disturbing truth. Heartbroken, the owner immediately filed a police report.
Investigations revealed that Pushpalatha was hired to care for and walk the dogs, earning a monthly salary of 23,000 Indian rupees (about NT$8,000). During questioning, she admitted to the act, claiming she lost control after becoming irritated by the puppy’s constant barking. Police also discovered she had previously been warned for allegedly stealing items from the same household, and are investigating whether revenge may have been a motive.
Authorities have charged Pushpalatha under India’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and other relevant sections of the penal code. She could face criminal prosecution for the offense.
The case, first reported by The Times of India, has ignited a wave of condemnation across social media, with users demanding justice. Many commented, “This wasn’t a moment of anger — it was cold-blooded cruelty,” and called for a lifetime ban preventing her from working with animals. Animal welfare groups have urged the government to impose stricter penalties for animal abuse and establish certification systems for pet care workers.
Bengaluru police confirmed that Pushpalatha has been remanded for court questioning and that authorities are investigating possible connections to other abuse cases. Officials also reminded pet owners to hire only certified and registered animal caregivers to ensure the safety and welfare of their pets.
A domestic help allegedly threw & killed a pet dog ‘Goofy’ inside a lift, like washing clothes, as seen in CCTV footage in an apartment lift in #Bengaluru. FIR under BNS Sec 325 of #AnimalCruelty. Accused Pushpalatha absconding after complaint by owner Rashi Poojari pic.twitter.com/HHJLLN54hS
— Sagay Raj P || ಸಗಾಯ್ ರಾಜ್ ಪಿ (@sagayrajp) November 3, 2025
