(Pakistan News & Features Services)
Barrister Sarah Asim Khan has proposed the formation of a committee of lawyers and police liaison for the prevention of cruelty against animals in an effort to unite legal and law enforcement professionals to combat animal cruelty in all the divisions of Karachi.
“Pakistan has made international commitments to improve animal welfare, notably through the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW), which emphasizes humane treatment and protection of animals. By expressing support for the UDAW, Pakistan aligns itself with global standards for animal rights,” she pointed out.
“Locally, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1890 serves as the primary legislation, though it is outdated and inadequately enforced. Recent reforms in 2022, including a ban on animal testing and increased penalties for cruelty, mark significant progress in enhancing animal welfare laws. However, challenges remain, such as limited public awareness and insufficient enforcement mechanisms, necessitating ongoing efforts for comprehensive legislative updates and effective implementation,” Barrister Sarah remarked in the proposal.
The objectives of the proposed committee of lawyers and police, according to her, included facilitating arrests, FIR registrations, and public exposure of offenders.
“Let us collaborate with shelters for injured animals and raise awareness about animal rights in Islam and promote kindness towards animals in schools, mosques, and community centres,” she added.
Barrister Sarah declared that the membership of the proposed committee will be open to all interested lawyers and police officers, with no limit on membership while a board will oversee operations, ensuring effective networking and resource utilization.
“Nominal membership fees will cover administrative costs, while offenders will be liable for animal medical expenses. The jurisdiction of the committee will be all districts of Karachi,” she concluded.
Barrister Sarah Asim Khan’s proposal to establish a committee of lawyers and police officers for preventing cruelty against animals is a commendable and timely initiative. By fostering collaboration between the legal and law enforcement communities, the proposal takes a holistic approach to address a longstanding and often overlooked issue. Her emphasis on Pakistan’s international commitments, the shortcomings of outdated legislation, and the need for grassroots awareness reflects a clear understanding of the multifaceted nature of animal welfare. The inclusion of public education, collaboration with shelters, and the promotion of Islamic values of kindness towards animals further strengthens the proposal’s potential for meaningful impact. This initiative not only advances animal rights but also promotes a culture of empathy and accountability within society.
ReplyDeleteMuhammad Nazakat Ali
Chief Editor
Karachiobserver.com