Animal behavior 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 recognize 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. The diminishing jungles also result in a decline in biodiversity, particularly affecting Pakistan’s aquatic ecosystems.
He emphasized the necessity of protecting aquatic animals, underscoring the importance of preserving their habitats for the benefit of future generations.
As diverse species face a decline, he underscored the urgency of educating the younger generation to instill a sense of responsibility in them. Additionally, he emphasizes the need to preserve natural habitats and establish wildlife sanctuaries as crucial steps toward conserving Pakistan’s rich and diverse wildlife.
A prominent animal rights activist, and founder of Aminals, Anees Jillani, 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 desperately need reform. He shed light on some key provisions of the outdated Act, emphasizing that it criminalizes cruelty to animals, including baiting or inciting animals to fight. He said that there was a dire need to resuscitate the neglected laws.