‘Animal rights pivotal to society’

Experts bemoan animal abuse for entertainment

ISLAMABAD:

Renowned wildlife and animal behaviour expert, Dr Ijaz Ahmed, emphasised the imperative need to not just consider the well-being of animals as a moral obligation but as a fundamental right within our society.

He asserted that animals, like humans, experience pain and deserve to have their intrinsic rights acknowledged. In a call for a societal mind-set shift, he urged the public to recognise the emotional capacity of animals and their right to coexist in human societies with dignity and respect.

However, it’s disheartening to witness the widespread use of animals for entertainment, particularly in circuses and amusement parks. Expressing concern over the gradual disappearance of animal biodiversity in Pakistan, Dr Ahmed highlighted the alarming consequences of depleting jungle cover. As these natural habitats diminish, countless species face the threat of losing their homes.

He further said that the diminishing jungles also result in a decline in biodiversity, particularly affecting Pakistan’s aquatic ecosystems. He emphasised the necessity of protecting aquatic animals, underscoring the importance of preserving their habitats for the benefit of future generations.

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As diverse species face a decline, he underscored the urgency of educating the younger generation so as to instil a sense of responsibility in them. Additionally, he emphasises the need to preserve natural habitats and establish wildlife sanctuaries as crucial steps towards conserving Pakistan’s rich and diverse wildlife.

A prominent animal rights activist, Anees Jilani, urged for a comprehensive overhaul of Pakistan's antiquated animal rights laws to align them with contemporary societal values. The existing laws, such as the 1890 Act under which the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) have proven ineffective and are in desperate need of reform.

Anees Jilani shed light on some key provisions of the outdated act, emphasising that it criminalises cruelty to animals, including baiting or inciting animals to fight. He said that there was a dire need to resuscitate the neglected laws.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11^th, 2024.