Pakistan’s Disturbing Trend of Animal Cruelty

Asem Mustafa Awan 

Islamabad: In recent days, Pakistan has become a flashpoint in the news, not only for its political turmoil but also for disturbing incidents of animal cruelty.

These barbaric acts have generated significant negative publicity for the country, painting a grim picture of its treatment of animals.

Despite existing laws and religious teachings advocating kindness to all living beings, Pakistan’s recent history tells a different story.

One of the most heart-wrenching incidents involved a female camel, still immature, who was cruelly mutilated for trespassing on feudal land.

The feudal lord severed her front leg, leaving the poor animal crying and in agony. The camel’s owner, a poor peasant, was too fearful to name the perpetrator, knowing the power and influence of the feudal elite.

Despite promises of justice from visiting ministers, the incident exposed the deep-seated issues of elite capture and impunity in Pakistan.

This incident occurred on a significant day, #Youm-e-Arafat, followed by Hajj, one of the highest Islamic rituals, making the cruelty even more poignant.

Sadly, this was not an isolated case. 

In the following days, a series of horrific acts against animals were reported.

Read More:https://thepenpk.com/animals-suffer-as-authorities-stand-idle/

A pregnant donkey was used for shooting practice after eating crops on feudal land, and another donkey had its ears cropped due to a monetary dispute between its owner and a feudal lord.

Cows and their calves were doused with gasoline and set on fire, and on July 15, a buffalo had its tongue cut out for eating fodder.

These incidents have brought international attention to Pakistan, highlighting its abysmal record on animal welfare. The world has previously witnessed Pakistan’s neglect of animals with cases like Kaavan, the world’s loneliest elephant, who spent over three decades in a small enclosure in Islamabad Zoo.

Kaavan’s plight garnered global attention, and he was eventually relocated to a sanctuary, thanks to international pressure and the intervention of then-president Dr Arif Alvi.

Similarly, the tragic case of Noor Jehan, an elephant who died in Karachi Zoo in April 2023, also drew widespread condemnation. Noor Jehan suffered for years, dragging herself on two legs due to neglect.

Despite efforts by international veterinarians, she passed away, exposing the inadequacies of Karachi Zoo’s facilities and care.

The death of a rare albino lion at Karachi Zoo further illustrates the dire state of animal welfare in Pakistan. The lion, emaciated and neglected, died gasping for air, with his remains intended for illegal trade in his skull, teeth, hide, and nails.

Contractors of Karachi Zoo have pending bills, leading to reduced diets for the animals, who suffer the consequences of financial mismanagement.

Pakistan’s zoos have also been sites of tragic incidents, such as the death of lions during relocation due to fire used by untrained handlers. These events reveal the incompetence and lack of proper care in these institutions.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/crying-camel-calls-for-justice/

Despite the country’s laws and religious teachings advocating kindness to animals, these repeated incidents depict a stark reality.

The country’s treatment of animals remains poor, with laws existing only on paper. The government’s apathy and lack of effective action perpetuate a culture of cruelty and neglect.

It is time for a high-level investigation into animal welfare in Pakistan. This investigation should involve individuals with genuine love and care for animals, capable of assessing their needs and conditions in zoos and other facilities.

The contracts for animal transfers from abroad, their survival rates in captivity, the allocation and audit of funds, and the use of gate money from public visits all need scrutiny.

Such steps can create accountability and improve the conditions for animals.

Pakistan’s placement in the lowest category of animal care globally is a wake-up call. The incidents of the past month alone highlight the urgent need for reform. This scribe, along with concerned readers, awaits the authorities’ actions to improve animal welfare in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s recent history of animal cruelty is a stain on its international reputation. The heart-wrenching stories of the mutilated camel, the shot and cropped-eared donkeys, the burned cows, and the maimed buffalo are cries for help that cannot be ignored.

Urgent and meaningful action is needed to protect these voiceless creatures and restore Pakistan’s standing in the global community.

Photo Credity: Via Google

Asem Mustafa Awan has extensive reporting experience with leading national and international media organizations. He has also contributed to reference books such as the Alpine Journal and the American Alpine Journal, among other international publications.