LHC takes stand against illegal dog culling

Officials face legal repercussions as evidence exposes policy violations

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LAHORE:

Legal proceedings are expected against district administration officials in Jhang and Faisalabad for violating Punjab's policy on stray dogs.

The Lahore High Court took up the matter after an animal rights organisation filed a petition against illegal dog culling. Justice Shahid Karim presided over the case, which focused on the protection of stray dogs and the enforcement of government policies.

Advocate Altamash Saeed represented the petitioners, while Assistant Advocate General Hassan Ijaz Cheema and Assistant Director of Local Government & Community Development, Nazir Ahmad, defended the government's stance.

During the hearing, Altamash Saeed challenged the claims of Faisalabad's Additional Director of Livestock, who stated that the government's policy was being followed.

He presented photographic evidence proving that dog culling had continued since February 2025, in direct violation of the policy.

Justice Shahid Karim directed the Assistant Advocate General to ensure strict adherence to the government's policy, warning that any further violations would result in legal action against responsible officials. The next hearing is scheduled for April 17, 2025. Speaking to Express News, environmental and animal rights consultant Altamash Saeed emphasized the case's significance, calling it a landmark in Pakistan's legal history.

He highlighted that the petition, filed on January 1, led to a court ruling on January 14, warning against policy violations. Despite this, dog culling persisted, prompting fresh evidence submissions on February 3 and 4.

"We are now entering the punishment phase, and I will present more evidence in court. This case could set a legal precedent in Pakistan, where an official may be penalised for the illegal killing of dogs," he stated.

Saeed also disclosed that a similar stay order had been secured in Rawalpindi, where a contempt petition was filed. A final decision in that case, which will extend to other cities in Punjab, has now been issued. "The Rawalpindi case has been decided, and I will soon share its details—another major victory for animal rights in Pakistan," he added.