Chennai: Two medical students from Chennai, Gautam Sudarshan, who flung a dog off the terrace, and Ashish Pal, who filmed the incident, have been fined Rs. 2 lakh each by the MGR Medical University, a move that might relieve animal rights activists.

The decision was taken on Tuesday by the four-member committee, formed to decide on the quantum of penalty to be paid to the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI).

Activist Anthony Rubin, an animal rights activist who filed an FIR as well as a petition in the court against both the accused, said that after the Madha Medical College suspended the duo, they filed a writ challenging their suspension. Rubin also informed that he has written to the university and the college, requesting them to allot the Rs 4 lakh fine to the charities working for the welfare of animals in Chennai, the hometown of Bhadra, the dog.

The cruelty against Bhadra got worldwide attention after a video, showing the dog being flung by the two final year MBBS students went viral in July, after which the cops launched a manhunt. The dog was found with fractures and has been completely healed. However, she will have to live with a permanent limp as her right hind leg has been badly damaged.

Gautam Sudarshan and his friend Ashish Pal had been charged under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, which involved a fine between Rs. 10 and Rs. 50. Although they were arrested, they were released on bail immediately, enraging animal rights activists who demand the antiquated law in force needs to be updated.

Meanwhile, the case by Rubin against the duo is expected to come up for hearing next week. Rubin has demanded the psychiatric evaluation of Sudarshan and Pal as well as community service and reimbursement of medical expenses incurred on Bhadra as well as the cancellation of their bail.