Ghaziabad, April 30 (IANS): A family here has run into trouble with its RWA which has allegedly disconnected their electricity and water supply in a bid to compel them to abandon their pet dog following complaints by other residents.

According to the family, they approached the police over the issue but all in vain, following which they approached union Minister and animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi for help.

After the minister sent People for Animals rpt People for Animals (PFA) volunteers for help, police then assured the family of their cooperation.

Kunal Gilhotra, the victim and resident of Anand Dham Society, said that on Saturday when the earthquake occurred "my wife took the pet along with her to the lift. But the society members opposed the entry of the friendly Labrador into the lift".

On the same day, the RWA following a meeting identified three families and issued them notices to either abandon their dogs or leave the society. Gilhotra family's recharge coupons for water and power have not been issued since then.

According to the RWA of Anand Dham Society, most of the people living in the society were of the view that animals should not be allowed inside the apartments.

"The resident welfare association (RWA) through the majority of the members decided not to allow pets in the apartments. So as the president of the RWA, I had to act accordingly as per the majority's wish," said RWA president Davendra Chaudhary.

Police said they would try to convince the RWA, failing which legal action would be initiated.

Meanwhile, the power and water supply to Gilhotra's apartment was not restored till late Wednesday.