Video of horse collapsing on Kolkata streets while pulling carriage goes viral, Pooja Bhatt urges CM Mamata Banerjee to intervene: ‘Heartbreaking’

Heartbreaking. A horse collapses on Kolkata’s streets from heat & exhaustion & is pushed to continue.
Hon @MamataOfficial @KolkataPolice @SwapanDebnath98 @derekobrienmp Beseech you’ll to ban these cruel horse-drawn carriages & switch to humane, progressive e-carriages 🙏🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/Fn73cdPfNd

— Pooja Bhatt (@PoojaB1972) April 30, 2025

The distressing video has reignited the conversation around the treatment of working animals in India, especially in urban centers where extreme weather and poor regulation pose serious threats to their well-being. “Severely Malnourished Horse,” a user wrote. “Yes, these cruel people should be behind the bars,” another user commented.

Following public outrage and PETA’s complaint, Kolkata Police shared that an FIR was filed against the horse’s handler. “Over the incident, Bhowanipore PS has registered the FIR on 24.04.2025 Ref: Case No. 90/25 under proper sections of law of BNS & PCA Act on PETA’s complaint. Appropriate legal action is being taken against the accused person involved,” the Kolkata Police wrote on X, adding that the horse is now under medical supervision and receiving regular veterinary care.

Over the incident, Bhowanipore PS has registered the FIR on 24.04.2025 Ref : Case No. 90/25 under proper sections of law of BNS & PCA Act on PETA’s complaint. Appropriate legal action is being taken against the accused person involved. The horse is under medical care with regular… https://t.co/2x3CPqpOWQ

— Kolkata Police (@KolkataPolice) April 30, 2025

PETA India also shared an update, stating, “A dehydrated and emaciated horse suffered a heatstroke and collapsed in Kolkata, as the handler slapped and yelled at the horse. We commend the @kolpolice for registering an FIR following a PETA India complaint. Nobody should have to endure such cruelty!”