LHC orders immediate halt to dog culling in Punjab

The Lahore High Court’s Rawalpindi Bench has ordered an immediate suspension of the dog culling campaign across Punjab, following a petition filed by animal protection activist Anila Umair and summoned responses from both parties by December 24, Express News reported.

Justice Jawad Hassan, presiding over the case, issued the written order halting the culling campaign, which has sparked controversy and concern among animal rights groups. The petition, filed by Umair, argues that the act of shooting or poisoning dogs is both unethical and illegal.

Authorities maintain that the culling is being carried out in response to public complaints regarding stray dogs, with local residents expressing concern over safety issues.

In her petition, Umair urged the court to compel the government to establish a national policy for the protection of animals. The court has now directed all parties involved to submit their responses by December 24.

The dog culling campaign has sparked debate on the balance between public safety and animal welfare, with activists calling for alternative solutions to manage stray animals in the province.