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A sleeping dog had burning hot tar poured over him by road workers as they were laying a road.

The dog was then flattened by a road roller by the workmen who have been branded inhumane.

Their actions have faced staunch criticism with many asking why they didn't take the time to wake the pooch, or chase it off.

The horrific incident took place in the town of Agra, India, famed for being home to the magnificent Taj Mahal.

Locals were so incensed by what had happened they protested at the Sadar police station in the town demanding action against the "dog killers".

(Image: Newsflare) (Image: Newsflare) (Image: Newsflare)

The dog was alive and "howling in pain" at the time, dnaindia reports.

Social activist Naresh Paras told the Press Trust of India: "A fresh layer of coal tar was being laid on the road from Phool Sayyed crossing towards the Circuit House and the Taj Mahal.

"A dog was sleeping on one side of the road.

"Instead of chasing the animal or removing it physically, burning coal tar was poured over it.

(Image: Newsflare) (Image: Newsflare)

"Later, a road roller crushed the animal.

"The body has now disappeared."

An animal cruelty case has been filed with police who are now investigating.

The horror incident came to light after photos and videos of the partly-buried dog emerged on social media.

Earlier this week, Mirror Online reported on a case in the UK where a "loving and well-behaved dog" was put down 'for looking dangerous'.

Crossbreed Duncan was handed into animal charity Blue Cross, which said he was in a sorry state, just "skin and bone" with his ribs clearly visible.

The charity found him to be a "gentle giant" and could have easily found him a new home - but never got the chance.

Duncan was deemed 'dangerous' by the local authority and had to be put to sleep.

(Image: Blue Cross) (Image: Blue Cross)

A Blue Cross animal welfare officer said: "Sadly we see loving and well-behaved dogs like Duncan all too often who have not put a paw out of place and would make someone a fantastic pet but because of the current law our hands are tied and they are not given the chance to live.

"It is heart-breaking and extremely frustrating for all involved and often leaves a dark cloud over the hospital each time we have to euthanase an otherwise healthy pet because the law states their looks deem them dangerous."

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Blue Cross staff were legally bound to inform the local authority that the two-year-old was in their care, as with all stray dogs.

Duncan was then typed as a Section 1 dog. Strays in this category cannot be re-homed by law and all re-homing charities are legally obliged to euthanase them.