NEW DELHI: Animal lovers in India have petitioned President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to intervene to stop the ``horrendous'' cruelty to homeless dogs that has been going on unchecked in Bangalore.

``We would urge you to please use whatever powers vested in your august office and your own strong sense of compassion and justice to stop this senseless slaughter,'' they have said in a memorandum submitted to the President.

The memorandum was signed by Animal Saviour, People for Animals, Friendicoes-Seca, Sonadi Charitable Trust, Animal India Trust and Citizens for the Welfare and Protection of Animals in New Delhi.

``This ghastly and barbaric act has destroyed the image of India as the land of ahimsa. It has made us hang our heads in shame. Ahimsa, which is the essence of Indian culture and philosophy enjoining upon us to revere all life, now lies shattered,'' they said .

The memorandum further points out that such acts violate the laws of the land (Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Indian Police Act) and states that it needs no great learning to appreciate that dogs or animals are no encroachers on this earth and it is the duty of every citizen to have compassion towards animals, including the dogs.

Emphasising the great role that community dogs play, the memorandum points out that it might seem paradoxical but having dogs in a society makes it more safe. There have been so many cases where many a thief has been detected by dogs that have alerted security guards of the area and other citizens by barking. Needless to mention, the dog — including the street dog — is the most loving and loyal friend to man, the memorandum says.

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