Transfer bear 'Rano' to Islamabad: SHC

The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Tuesday directed the Karachi Zoo administration to hand over Rano, a female bear kept in poor conditions at the zoo, to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) within two days.

A two-member bench headed by Justice Muhammad Iqbal Kalhoro heard a petition regarding the inadequate care and facilities for the animal. During the proceedings, the Secretary of Wildlife Department and the Senior Director of Karachi Zoo appeared before the court.

Expressing strong displeasure over the state of affairs, Justice Kalhoro remarked, "How can an animal be kept in such a miserable condition? Why does every step require a court order? Why can't you take initiative on your own to improve these situations?"

The petitioner's counsel informed the court that Rano has been confined to the same enclosure for the past seven years, and that the animal's head has become infested with worms due to neglect. The court observed that it was deeply concerning that the bear had been imprisoned for so long, remarking, "What is the fault of this voiceless creature?"

When asked why the animal had not been treated or relocated, the Secretary of Wildlife stated that the zoo falls under the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and does not come under the jurisdiction of the Wildlife Department. The counsel further noted that Rano, in distress, often bangs her head against the cage bars.

After hearing all sides, the court ordered the zoo administration to transfer Rano to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board within two days to ensure her proper care and rehabilitation.

Country's first transgender doctor denied licence

The Sindh High Court has issued notices to the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and other respondents on a petition filed by Dr. Sarah Gill, the country's first transgender doctor, over the non-issuance of her registration and medical licence.

During the hearing, the petitioner's counsel informed the court that Dr. Sarah Gill had completed her MBBS degree in 2021 from Jinnah Medical and Dental College (JMDC) located on the Shaheed-e-Millat Road. The college has since been upgraded to a university.

According to the new university administration, JMDC was previously affiliated with the University of Karachi, but since it has now become an independent institution, it no longer has access to the PMDC's online portal.

The PMDC, however, maintains that updating the academic records of students is the responsibility of the university. Due to this administrative dispute between the two institutions, the petitioner's medical licence has not yet been issued.

After hearing the arguments, the court issued notices to the PMDC and other parties, directing them to submit their replies by November 7.