The priest of the Aghori Kali temple in Ghatkesar, located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, has been charged with animal cruelty during the Navratri festival. The priest, Gantepaka Narasimha, also known as ‘Aghori Guru Raja Swami,’ is well-known on social media and runs an Instagram channel. He posted videos showing an animal, believed to be a goat, being beheaded, and its blood being offered to the idol of a goddess. These videos quickly went viral.
After the videos gained attention, an animal welfare activist named Goutham reported the incident to the police. A case was filed under Section 325 BNS and Section 11(1)(a) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The police have started an investigation into the matter.
According to the AP Animals and Birds Sacrifice Prohibition Act of 1950, animal sacrifices for religious purposes are strictly banned. The priest’s actions are being scrutinized under this law.
