On 14th March, 2016, in a political rally was conducted by BJP near the state assembly building in Uttarakhand. Allegedly a police force, including mounted police, was deployed at the site of protest. The BJP’s Mussoorie MLA Ganesh Joshi, reportedly participating in the protest against the state government, was said to turn violent and in attempts to dismount the police officer, charged at the police horse, Shaktimaan, with a lathi and reportedly beat him which caused him to tumble and break its leg. Shaktimaan is reported to be undergoing treatment at the district veterinary hospital, where he faces an amputation or maybe even euthanasia.

Shaktimaan is said to have served in the police force for the past 7 years. The reward for his unwavering duty is permanent disability or death in his prime. Shaktimaan was targeted by Mr Joshi and his unidentified supporters for the sole purpose of dismounting the officer sitting astride him. It can be seen in the video below that Shaktimaan tried to back away and avoid the brutal lathicharge launched against him by Mr Joshi. In addition to this, Mr Joshi's supporters were seen punching Shaktimaan in the face and grabbing at him. Scared and traumatized due to the onslaught of the unruly mob, he tried to retreat but having no allowance to escape, he collapsed on his leg and broke it in multiple places.

The constitution makes it the fundamental duty of every citizen of India to have and show compassion to all living creatures. Not only has Mr Joshi failed in his duty he has also committed serious offences under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.

Such utter disregard for the Constitution, for law and order, and for life of a sentient being, is deplorable. No person purporting cruelty and violence should be representing the people of a country built on the foundation of non-violence and compassion.

Join us in urging the Governor and the Speaker of Uttarakhand along with the President of BJP asking them to suspend Mr Ganesh Joshi from the Legislative Assembly and initiate such other disciplinary action as necessary.