MQM warns of action as city faces surge in stray dog attacks

KARACHI:

Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) expressed deep concern over a sharp rise in stray dog attacks across Karachi, warning that the provincial government's failure and the ineffective local body system have left residents exposed to daily dangers.

In a statement from Bahadurabad, MQM-P's Sindh Assembly members criticised the provincial government for neglecting citizens' safety, arguing that in major global cities, residents are provided protection and basic facilities, whereas Karachi's population is left vulnerable to stray dog attacks. They highlighted that assaults on children, women, and the elderly have become routine, while government officials and paper-appointed mayors focus on political statements and media appearances rather than action.

The party pointed to shortages of anti-rabies vaccines, ineffective dog control campaigns, and the poor performance of municipal staff as factors endangering lives. Citizens reportedly face difficulties accessing treatment at public hospitals, leaving victims fearful and untreated.

MQM-P called for an immediate, citywide operation to control the stray dog population, a guaranteed and sustained supply of anti-rabies vaccines in hospitals, and the implementation of a comprehensive and transparent safety strategy. They also demanded action against negligent municipal representatives.

Warning that continued inaction would provoke a strong response, MQM-P pledged to launch both parliamentary protests and public campaigns if the provincial government failed to act. The party emphasized that protecting citizens' lives and property is a constitutional obligation and vowed that failure to meet this responsibility would be met with accountability in the "court of public opinion."