Madhya Pradesh To Raze Homes Of Suspects Behind Viral Man-On-Leash Video

The stringent National Security Act (NSA) has been invoked against three Muslim men who allegedly held a man on a leash and were heard on video ordering him to "bark like a dog". The victim, identified as Vijay Ramchandani, has alleged in his police complaint that he was being forced to convert into Islam.

Three men -- Sameer, Sajid, and Faizan Lal - have been arrested based on the complaint.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, calling for exemplary action against the three, has directed that their homes be razed. They can also be held for up to 12 months, and even longer if fresh evidence is provided, under the NSA.

In the 48 second video clip, a man held on a leash sits on his haunches, hands folded, as someone orders him to "become a dog" and apologise.

"While beating me up, they asked me to become a Muslim and start eating beef. They said I was a coward and they could have killed me that day," said the FIR or First Information Report filed by Vijay Ramchandani.

He said he knew Faizan, Sahil and Samir, who allegedly blocked his way, slapped him and searched his pockets.

"Sameer was standing at a distance and was saying kill him, search the pockets thoroughly, you will find something," said Vijay in his complaint.

At the same time, three more men -- Bilal, Mufid and Sahil Baccha -- arrived in a car and they, too, allegedly started beating him up. They threatened him with a knife, and took him to another place on a motorcycle, snatched the keys of his scooter, and also his two phones, the FIR said.

Two of the attackers allegedly tied a belt around his neck, started kicking him, and abusing his mother and sister.

They demanded money at knifepoint, and the victim handed over Rs 700-800 and two phones out of fear, the FIR said.

Vijay alleged that the accused also called his brother and mother, and threatened them. He claimed the accused continued to harass him and demand money.

"I kept quiet due to fear but am fed up of their harassment," he said, demanding strict punishment.

As the video went viral, State Home Minister Narottam Mishra ordered the Police Commissioner to investigate. The FIR lists the Madhya Pradesh Religious Freedom Act besides kidnapping, wrongfully restraining, and voluntarily causing hurt.

"I saw the video. It seemed very serious. Such behaviour against another person is reprehensible. I have asked the Police Commissioner to investigate the incident, take action, and deliver results within 24 hours," Narottam Mishra said.