Two minor girls aged 6 and 8, working as household maids here in Hazaribagh, were tortured and beaten by their employer for injuring her pet dog while playing with it.

The woman has been identified as Asha Choudhary, wife of late Ramsharan Choudhary, a resident of Vidya Vihar Colony on Baba Path in Huruhu of Hazaribagh town. She escaped after the matter reached the police.

The minors, who are from Mahua Toli mohalla of Ranchi, said they were working as maids at Asha's house for two years. They alleged they did all the household work and never served food.

The girls said that while playing with the dog, it injured its leg. This angered Asha who, the girls alleged, started beating them mercilessly with a stick. Asha also slashed at the hand of the 8-year-old with a sharp shaving blade resulting in multiple cuts. Neighbours informed Bara Bazar outpost police after hearing their cries.

Police reached the house and admitted the girls to Hazaribagh Medical College and Hospital. They are now on the lookout for Asha.

District childline officer Sanjay Prasad said they will ensure that the girls get justice.