E-Paper | May 25, 2026

PML-N's election symbol dies

Dawn.com Published May 8, 2013
comments
Whatsapp Channel
Add Dawn as a trusted source
Google Preferred Source

LAHORE: Ever since the start of election season, live tigers and lions are a constant feature at PML-N political rallies.

The party leader’s daughter, Mariam Nawaz, in particular enjoys bringing the white tiger to her rallies because of the attention it attracted.

But the show stopper tiger is no more alive.

Sources confirmed to Dawn.com that the rare tiger was brought unconscious to the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore on Tuesday evening. The vets there tried to revive the animal but to no avail. The animal died this morning.

According to WWF, white tigers are endangered and are extremely sensitive to heat and noise. With temperatures in Lahore soaring past thirty degrees Celsius and there being nothing but noise at the political rallies, the tiger could not survive. WWF has also confirmed that famed actor and conservationist Faryal Gohar is going to file a petition with the Lahore High Court against the illegal use of wildlife animals at rallies and other such activities. WWF is supporting the petition.

The tiger belonged to a party worker who boasted off his ‘pet’ at Mariam Nawaz’s rallies. The animal can be seen in PML-N rallies across Punjab.

Our readers are at the heart of everything we do.
Do you have a thought to share or a way we can improve? We’d love to hear it. Reach out to us at feedback@dawn.com.
Pakistan

Read more

shuaib
May 08, 2013 07:58pm
Shame on PML N as they are responsible for the death of that innocent white tiger. This is what shows their ignorance to the civic norms and mentality that they can use any unethical means to market themselves.
Recommend 0
Khan of Kalabagh
May 08, 2013 10:02pm
In a country where Humans are treated inferior than Vertebrates, who cares for a dead poor endangered white Tiger, Sigh
Recommend 0
Abdullah
May 08, 2013 10:26pm
This was clear oppression done on this poor animal. Such a rare and beautiful creature and they killed it for what? Votes?? Shame on PML-N and Mariam Nawaz for doing such injustice.
Recommend 0
Madeeha
May 08, 2013 11:48pm
It is sad that a person doing PHD won't realize that a rare specie is sensitive to noise and temperature but subject it to constant torture. Classic example of how a person can be educated yet be so ignorant!
Recommend 0
Zeeshan
May 09, 2013 01:53am
It is not a good Omen for PML-N.
Recommend 0
Najam
May 09, 2013 10:50am
We are going to be ruled by people who don't know the difference between a tiger and a lion.
Recommend 0
Imran Khan Devotee
May 09, 2013 11:21pm
It was just for political gain. If people like u can't see the corruption and the wealth these two had made in their terms both within and outside Pakistan!! It is extremely unfortunate. The only thing "Sharif" about these two is their name else they are the Zardaris of Punjab.
Recommend 0
Maira
May 09, 2013 05:41am
White lion is important but Sanaullah is useless. What has happened to junta. The is not a single comment on Sanaullahs traumatic death
Recommend 0
Naya Pakistan
May 09, 2013 05:36am
No vision of this party, rightly labeled as PML (N)alaiq.
Recommend 0
rimi
May 09, 2013 05:22am
this is the attitude of a leader !! they killed an endangered specie ...shame on PML-N...shame shame........
Recommend 0
khan
May 09, 2013 05:01am
Shame on PML N for killing a rare species. What did the rallies got out of SHOW-OFF!! Please name the person to be blamed for the death of the tiger?? i pray the petition results in the person to b thrown behind the bars!!
Recommend 0
knucker
May 09, 2013 04:52am
This is a murder....
Recommend 0
Saad
May 09, 2013 04:32am
Bad Omen for PML (n)
Recommend 0
Ghalib Khan
May 09, 2013 04:16am
ECP how about Changing PML-N symbols , to Hunger, Poverty , Black-outs, Extremism, or Taliban, if they can Kill any-one of those also. it would be a blessing
Recommend 0
Salma~Ahmad Khan
May 09, 2013 08:33pm
Don't you know their mentality Mr. Baig~~~ where beyond the earth were you & are you! Their two terms in office & what are they doing nowWW!?! Keep your hopes for something better!
Recommend 0
Ghalib Khan
May 09, 2013 04:08am
Hey She is Sharif Daughter our Courts are not allowed to look at Raiwind, it is out of their jursdiction
Recommend 0
Ghalib Khan
May 09, 2013 04:07am
Would CJ take Suo Motto Notice of this incident, Oh sorry I forgot it is PML-N, they are exempted of all law,
Recommend 0
Parvez Gondal MD
May 09, 2013 03:59am
What a bunch of shameless and cruel people. I just can not believe that my brothers and sisters are so blind to the fact that they are one of the most corrupt Politicians and have looted the country with both hands. I hope that my brothers and sisters will not turn a blind eye to the facts and vote for this family.
Recommend 0
ady
May 08, 2013 10:13pm
People who still support PML N and ppp should learn lesson from a Tiger which preferred death rather than serving corrupt and incompetent leaders. He had more dignity and wisdom than many people who are still lining up for such parties and leaders (so-called)!
Recommend 0
Aiza9
May 08, 2013 10:32pm
Inshahllah! With this we say bye to the criminal era of Pakistan and welcome our new PM Imran Khan inshahllah!!!!!!!!!
Recommend 0
Nasr
May 08, 2013 10:08pm
I know as I read this news. It was getting dark and these animals got loose from their cages in a sanctuary, and so that they would had been lost in the nearby forest posing danger to the nearby city population they had to take this drastic measure. Human life in America is very important. The Sharif's are feeding & keeping their pets to show their grandeur and pride. Why shouldn't they care of the poor masses and live in humility.
Recommend 0
Mahboob Khan
May 09, 2013 02:50am
I agree with you.
Recommend 0
Waqar
May 09, 2013 02:53am
What else people of Pakistan need to realize that PML(N) will go to any extent and cross all limitations of humanity to win this elections. They don't care if you are a human or an animal, they have wrong moral principles. It is my humble request to all the people of Pakistan to think carefully before they cast their votes because their votes will decide their future. If they choose to vote for PPP or PML N than all the hopes for new Pakistan will die for next few years. There will be no progress, no development in Pakistan. People of Pakistan will continue suffer and their miseries will continue until they realize that there is a need to change and that cannot come from either PPP or PMLN.
Recommend 0
Salman Saleem
May 09, 2013 06:17am
PTI supporters cum trolls can never learn ethics. Nawaz Sharif prayed for Imran Khan health at Rawalpindi rally, while Shahbaz Sharif visited IK personally to wish him speedy recovery. PTI should acknowledge the goodwill gesture shown by PML-N leadership.
Recommend 0
Tahir
May 08, 2013 10:55pm
"Daddy! Buy me a tiger so that I can show off." I just don't believe that beautiful helpless creature died at their hands. Shame on you guys.
Recommend 0
Taha
May 09, 2013 06:36pm
You will be surprised to know that there is no provision on tigers in the Punjab Wildlife Laws. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act is the only resort.
Recommend 0
Aiza9
May 08, 2013 10:39pm
This is criminal! WWF, your attention please!
Recommend 0
Aiza9
May 08, 2013 10:38pm
This is criminal and should be followed up by WWF! Im utterly disgusted!
Recommend 0
Sadruddin Ajanee, Calgary, Canada
May 08, 2013 10:21pm
Owner of the Tiger and Government official responsible for Wild Life Protection should be Procecuted
Recommend 0
Shahpur
May 08, 2013 09:51pm
Let there be an autopsy of the Tiger first.
Recommend 0
Adil Uddin
May 09, 2013 01:48am
Now what's ECP going to do. Tigers, whether white or regular, are endangered species; and it's crystal clear that the one used by PML-N for Election Campaign died due to exhaustion, bad weather and noise pollution. Is it permissible as per ECP's guidelines to torture and bother any animal this way just to gather attention and support for one's party? It will be interesting if WWF (World Wildlife Fund) takes notice of this case, and ECP won't be able to lock horns with the global organization just to defend PML-N.
Recommend 0
Usman
May 09, 2013 01:19am
This is exactly why PML(N) is not to be trusted the party is full or immature people. Bringing white tiger to the rally's just to catch public attention, how selfish. Honestly this is what they have done to our beloved country as well. No respect for any humanity just trying to exploit for these own cause. What a shame.
Recommend 0
Janzeb
May 09, 2013 01:10am
What a shame... Only in Pakistan one can get away with this type of cruelty. Nawaz Sharif and his stooges are lucky they don't live in a civilized society where animals have rights. Using such a beautiful and an endangered species to drum up votes from the naive public is a senseless act to begin with. Not taking care of it and letting it die is a heinous crime.
Recommend 0
Xulf
May 09, 2013 12:54am
Like father like daughter!! Cheap and totally ignorant...
Recommend 0
Gulwar
May 09, 2013 12:25am
Maddy ..You said it. PML does not care even for a rare defenseless tiger , while it promises to protect and promote welling being of people. white lies. so tiger dies
Recommend 0
irfan
May 08, 2013 11:53pm
CJ of the kangroo courts should take a notice of the death of a tiger. I am sure this suo motto will be better and meaningful than the ones he has taken before.
Recommend 0
khalid
May 08, 2013 11:45pm
Tiger is already a rare animal. I am worried about their number in the world right from India to Russia and here we are like killing them.
Recommend 0
Palvasha von Hassell
May 08, 2013 02:35pm
Heartbreaking! Shocking cruelty to animals. Very, very saddening.
Recommend 0
rana1
May 08, 2013 02:37pm
just like over the years a party that was unable to take care of its people,now the same treatment took away their live party symbol.Goes to show how inhumane and careless they are.How can you parade an animal without givng it proper care and attention.
Recommend 0
pakistan
May 08, 2013 02:39pm
Sad situation, such a prestene animal now lost to irresponsible behaviour by PML N. Perhaps a another sad reflection on our cruel society, this is what Pakistan has become, destroying everything in its path, minorities, forests...animals, mountains they are being destroyed in our country. Perhaps even an omen for PML N they are dying too as a political force.
Recommend 0
Maya
May 08, 2013 02:39pm
One can't even complain of animal cruelty as normal Pakistanis are treated much worse every day. Makes you wonder who is the animal in all of this, we the people or those ruling over us. Its certainly not the beautiful creature pictured above.
Recommend 0
Sheikh
May 08, 2013 02:43pm
Signs of things to come. But really... the "owner" of the tiger should be held accountable. Shame on these people for subjecting a helpless and bound wild animal to such indignity and torcher.
Recommend 0
Tansar
May 08, 2013 02:44pm
I think they should get the point :)
Recommend 0
Sam
May 08, 2013 02:46pm
Feel sad for poor tiger, if PML cant take care of thier symbolic figure; how can they do something for poor people of Pakistan.
Recommend 0
Rauf
May 08, 2013 02:47pm
Hahaha... fools!
Recommend 0
Tariq
May 08, 2013 02:47pm
These heartless politicians have no respect for human life let alone animals!
Recommend 0
Syed
May 08, 2013 02:48pm
I'd just like to say grow up PML N. What's wrong with these so called leaders?
Recommend 0
Amjad Wyne
May 08, 2013 02:48pm
These leaders do not understand cruelty against humans, how can one begin to explain animal cruelty.
Recommend 0
fazalpai
May 08, 2013 02:50pm
one more decline push for nml after imrans tragedy.
Recommend 0
Qamar
May 08, 2013 02:51pm
Inhumane use of a helpless animal shows the 'kinder' side of Sharifs.
Recommend 0
VOTE PTI
May 08, 2013 02:51pm
PML N just want to buy people with laptops and useless metro bus and all they care about is fame and money not the nation VOTE WISELY EVEN IF YOU DON'T SUPPORT ALL OF IMRAN KHAN'S POLICIES, AT LEAST HE CARES ABOUT THE NATION, AS IS SO EVIDENT, AND IS NOT SELFISH AND WILL WORK TILL HIS DEATHBED FOR THE BETTERMENT OF PAKISTAN. WAKE UP PAKISTAN. SHARIF HAS ALREADY HAD 2 TERMS IN GOVT WITH RECORD BREAKING UNEMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC DOWNFALL. HIS DAUGHTER MARIAM NAWAZ TERRORIZED A SHOPKEEPER IN LAHORE WHEN THEY DIDNT OPEN A STORE FOR HER AFTER SHOP TIMINGS. THINK OF WHAT THESE PEOPLE WILL DO TO THE COUNTRY FOR THEIR OWN SELFISH SELVES. JUST WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SHAHBAZ SHARIFF IS FUNNY, JUMPING IN RALLIES, BREAKING MICS, TOTALLY ILLOGICAL AND AGGRESSIVE MAN.
Recommend 0
noor
May 08, 2013 02:51pm
So what ? Maryam Nawaza has so many of them.
Recommend 0
fus
May 08, 2013 02:54pm
Sad, just shows insensitivity of Maryan Nawaz. This is a white tiger, an endangered species, why would you take it to all the rallies, where it is hot , dirty, loud and crowded. It must have been drugged most of the time to keep in control. Actually show her love and care for this animal. It was more of symbal of power and show off. But then she is NS daughter.
Recommend 0
Ahluwalia
May 08, 2013 02:55pm
Very strange to use wild endangered animals for electoral campaigns , looks like wild wild south east Asian circus. We were told that Nawaz's were an educated family?
Recommend 0
Rakesh
May 08, 2013 03:01pm
Politics aside, it is not ethical to use an animal-an endangered specie at that-for personal gain, with scant regard for the safety of the animal! Leave the wildlife out of the fetid politics of humans!!!
Recommend 0
HM, Canada
May 08, 2013 03:02pm
Is that a bad omen?? Is that the start of death of PML N??
Recommend 0
Ghazi
May 08, 2013 03:02pm
Shameful...
Recommend 0
kemariwala
May 08, 2013 03:05pm
Shameless, merciless, exploitation of innocent animals.
Recommend 0
Aamir
May 08, 2013 03:06pm
What a shame....... For your own gain, you have killed the animal.
Recommend 0
Siberian Summer
May 08, 2013 03:07pm
Everything in this story reads fine as long as you keep Feryal Gohar out of it. She just wants self promotion and is willing to go to every extent for the purpose. WWF can file the petition on its own too.
Recommend 0
Shah Nawaz
May 08, 2013 03:07pm
This is against the international Norms of Animal rights. Nawaz Family and their supporters must be tried in court for the abuse.
Recommend 0
imran
May 08, 2013 03:07pm
PML-N should be tried for killing a rare endanger tiger for their electioneering.
Recommend 0
Ahmed
May 08, 2013 03:09pm
Even though I consider PMLN to be the best bet for Pakistan today, I am disgusted by their mistreatment of this poor animal. Dragging him around on noisy election campaigns like this is simply inhumane. When will people in Pakistan start showing some humanity towards animals as is done in all the nations Pakistanis love to hate? I suppose one will have to wait until the day people in Pakistan start caring for fellow humans and not merely running after "heroes" and "VIPS".
Recommend 0
farid
May 08, 2013 03:09pm
What an idiocy. How can someone be so cruel to an animal. Typical of Pakistani feudal lords.
Recommend 0
TNT
May 08, 2013 03:10pm
the tiger is dead...time for bat...
Recommend 0
Muhammad Farooq
May 08, 2013 03:11pm
Thank you Ms Faryal Gohar for your plan to file a petition. Please do so quick so this cruelty to animals is avoided by court order if not by compassion for animals.
Recommend 0
ozman
May 08, 2013 03:17pm
Jaahil ko aggar jahhal ka innaam diya jaay, iss haadsa e Waqat ko kia naam diya jaay.
Recommend 0
Nazir K Ali
May 10, 2013 04:57am
My commiserations for the death of the RARE white tiger. There was a lot of commotion in the press and TV when these animals were imported and finally, placed in care of the Raiwind Estate. PMLN is still a party run by the crass and shills. In repentance, Marium Nawaz should stop politics and start an animal care center. Do some practical good while you have the resources. Salams
Recommend 0
Hassan
May 08, 2013 03:20pm
This is outrageous! There are only 2500 tigers left in the wild and this is a critically endangered species. These selfish people have no sense of responsibility to earth, fellow countrymen and any regards for life. Miriam Nawaz should be punished for this!!
Recommend 0
just_someone
May 08, 2013 03:21pm
Poor animal. It got tortured to death by these insensitive and crazy people!
Recommend 0
Tao
May 08, 2013 03:23pm
Putting a beautiful, sensitive wild animal on display like this day after day is animal abuse, pure and simple . It is a shame such a magnificent animal had to die because of the silly vanity of a political party. The way you treat your animals ultimately reflects on how you treat each other.
Recommend 0
Karachi Wala
May 08, 2013 03:26pm
This is highly, insensitive, Selfish and uneducated that animals are used in such inhumane way. There should be a case registered against all those who have been using animals for some pity political gains.
Recommend 0
Umer Tahir
May 08, 2013 03:26pm
Cruel human vs Ferocious Wild Animal, clear winner here is a human being who would treat these lovely rare animals as their slave. I am guessing that this tiger's skin is going to end up as one of the politician's door mat. I hope PML(N) disallow use of tigers in their 'jalsas' from now on.
Recommend 0
Shahpur
May 08, 2013 03:34pm
Tiger was probably drugged heavily to keep him calm, in view of the above description and he died. Who is going to investigate, no body. These people will run this country.
Recommend 0
Baber
May 08, 2013 03:37pm
PML-N ... you really disgust me and shame the Pakistani Society. You are not tigers.. you are poachers. An animal on the endangered list means nothing to you ... and you treat it like you would treat the public.
Recommend 0
QB
May 08, 2013 03:37pm
Such an inhumane treatment of animals. Seems like PML-N can go to any length to seek power. People do you still want to vote for them? Please wake up Pakistan and recognize these ..... Time for a change now.
Recommend 0
Ifti
May 08, 2013 03:39pm
He/She actually died of the apathy of PML-N towards killing of oponents, as they say "geder kee 100 years .... "
Recommend 0
TKhan
May 08, 2013 03:42pm
Imran fell, he will rise again. Tiger died, Alas will never resurrect again. Signs of the times?
Recommend 0
Dilawer
May 08, 2013 03:42pm
A case showed be filed against PML-N for this death.
Recommend 0
Megatron
May 08, 2013 03:43pm
That means a case should be registered against Shareef Brothers & Co for killing a tiger !!!
Recommend 0
Farrukh
May 08, 2013 03:45pm
It probably died of shame...associated with the PML. The animal was always drugged and lethargic...if any these people should be prosecuted for animal abuse, but in a country where the rights of the human beings are trampled every day...as if that is going to happen.
Recommend 0
Baig
May 08, 2013 03:47pm
Symbolic or an Omen!!!!!
Recommend 0
Steppenwolf
May 08, 2013 03:52pm
What can you expect from a culture steeped in vanity and show-off? But this is really sad.
Recommend 0
Israr Khan Ismail Zai
May 08, 2013 03:54pm
Same way they will kill Pakistani People too, for their own interests.
Recommend 0
touseef
May 08, 2013 03:55pm
It's just first blood and there are many more to come, if you don't believe me just elect them and find out!!
Recommend 0
aawaterloo@yahoo.com
May 08, 2013 03:57pm
Animal cruelty..... Isn't that a crime. I guess not in Pakistan
Recommend 0
pervez
May 08, 2013 04:00pm
Not a good omen for Sharif's. I really hope.
Recommend 0
G.A.
May 08, 2013 04:01pm
First IK's own genius body guards almost killed him. Now this death of a rare species. No dearth of 'geniuses' is there?
Recommend 0
Ali
May 09, 2013 05:36pm
Correct and it also proves CJ support for them, why no action against Mariam Nawaz? Why
Recommend 0
Imran
May 08, 2013 04:08pm
They will use any means or gimmicks to draw attention. What a circus by PML-N.
Recommend 0
Abdul Qayyum Khan Achakzai
May 08, 2013 04:16pm
Actions should be taken against the PML-N for wasting white tiger one from the endangered species of tigers. WWF should take action against the responsible.
Recommend 0
Zahid
May 08, 2013 04:20pm
Poor animal died if shame! Still, makes no difference to some PML-N supporters.
Recommend 0
Sinn Sal
May 08, 2013 04:22pm
This is the level of Pakistan leaders? Wow. Actually its not that surprising, where human life is as good as a peanut,, animals certainly don't have a chance .
Recommend 0
Raj
May 08, 2013 04:28pm
The tiger died due to stress inflicted on it. Seeing so many humans at the same time is very stressful to any animal.
Recommend 0
muzammil ullah khan
May 08, 2013 04:28pm
Who cares if an endangered white tiger is killed due to the heat and noise during PML-N rallies as long as Maryam Nawaz can have her show !!. Nawaz Sharif will buy another one of these species . Money makes the mare go . The tiger however selected a wrong time to die . BAD OMEN !!
Recommend 0
Visibly Invisible
May 08, 2013 04:29pm
What a shame and complete disregard of yet another life for political gains.
Recommend 0
sirjee
May 08, 2013 04:36pm
This is just non-sense & cruelty, these people don't know that white tiger is endangered species...
Recommend 0
Saleem
May 08, 2013 04:39pm
Out of their mind and devoid of reality!!!!! You use a rare animal for personal ambition!! Thats what is sooo wrong about politicians and reflection of their mindset!!
Recommend 0
Kanwal
May 08, 2013 04:40pm
But do we expect them to be sympathetic to animals considering their past records? and by extension, how much value does she give to a living being? She would be sent to jail in any developed country for doing this.
Recommend 0
A R Khan
May 08, 2013 04:41pm
They should be tried for cruelty to animals. (They all have mindset of a feudal, from beggar to the president.)
Recommend 0
Blister
May 08, 2013 04:41pm
she should be ordered to do 150 hours of paid community service in a city slum wit the actual owner of the pet.
Recommend 0
Shabbir
May 08, 2013 04:43pm
What a shame, just for publicity killed a rare animal....... the big brothers must have thought no issue can be bought another one with big earned money... shame :(
Recommend 0
Amir
May 08, 2013 04:45pm
brilliant title ;)
Recommend 0
Syes
May 08, 2013 04:49pm
Cruelty to animal is a sin.
Recommend 0
Zinda Dil
May 08, 2013 04:51pm
his election symbol died when he aligned himself with ppp and supported a courrupt govt. its shamless to equate such a magnificent animal with a family run party of looters.
Recommend 0
Asad Khan
May 08, 2013 04:52pm
An endangered animal used to pacify the egos of the political mafia pays with his life. Can we be more cruel than that? A question for N league's leadership - do they know the difference between a lion and a tiger, or is it that they represent all species of the cat family? In that case why not use a house cat for your political machinations.
Recommend 0
Jehangir
May 08, 2013 04:52pm
RIP Tiger ji-
Recommend 0
independentthinker
May 08, 2013 04:53pm
I don't know what the laws are in Pakistan, against cruelty to animals, but had this happened in North America, they would have been held criminally responsible. Just shows where the party's priorities lie! How could anyone do that to an innocent animal, just to gain attention. I hope this is a wake-up call to all Pakistanis - that this is the party that has no ethics, values or moral. Shame on them!
Recommend 0
Nasr
May 08, 2013 04:53pm
What a pity! Insanely, inhuman attitude and treatment towards a beautiful animal, an endangered species, who lost its life against the whim and show of its masters. Mariam Nawaz is educated but have shown how uneducated she is. What to tell of the party she is representing. I hope with the death of this tiger dies all hope for a win for her party in the election also.
Recommend 0
concerned212
May 08, 2013 04:53pm
Animal cruelty. If people won't tace care of allah's creations, allah won't take care of them.
Recommend 0
Mr Singh
May 08, 2013 04:54pm
extremely shameful. how they can treat a rare animal so cruelly. people responsible for this incident should be punished
Recommend 0
endcorrupt
May 08, 2013 04:55pm
These are not people, these are thugs who enjoy cruelty to humans & animals. Utter shameless & vile people.
Recommend 0
hyderphd74
May 09, 2013 04:57pm
Choudhry, Choudhry, Bhai, Bhai !!
Recommend 0
Syed A. Zafar (USA)
May 08, 2013 05:02pm
It is shame and willful killing of an animal in my opinion. I fully support and appreciate Ms. Faryal Gohar and WWF taking stand against this inhuman abuse/killing of a lion which is also a violation of national and International laws. Where is the right wing judiciary and ECP against this abuse and why it can't disqualify and arrest the Shreef family and the owner of this animal who for the sake of false pride, politics and publicity killed such a rare tiger in my opinion. It is sure a proof of arrogance, cruelty, illiteracy and uncaring attitude of a known corrupt family who is enabled to contest and win the elections third time. zafarsyed40@yahoo.com
Recommend 0
Khan
May 08, 2013 05:02pm
Now you people can decide if you want to vote for these 'Sharifs' who are brutal to animals. What leader of a civilized country abuses animals for votes and what kind of people are we to offer our votes because someone is parading a white tiger? Maryam would be in jail if she were a citizen of a civilized nation.
Recommend 0
Aftab Kenneth Wilson
May 08, 2013 05:09pm
What can one expect from these cruel mentality people. I hope WWF will also file a petition in this regard. Owners who happens to be one of the sons of Sharif's family should be booked.
Recommend 0
Khan
May 08, 2013 05:11pm
Animal abuse seems to be widely accepted in the muslim world, we muslims really are neanderthals but we are worse, ancient people respected nature and animal life in their own way
Recommend 0
Aftab Kenneth Wilson
May 08, 2013 05:11pm
I agree with you.
Recommend 0
Saeed
May 08, 2013 05:13pm
Not only the animal died but it is also a very bad omen for PMLN election bid!
Recommend 0
Khan
May 08, 2013 05:13pm
I have to take a swipe at Dawn for using such a tasteless headline, its not an election symbol but a living creature and the PML N should be held criminally responsible for killing it.
Recommend 0
Syed Ahmed
May 08, 2013 05:14pm
How could the PML(N) activists keep white tiger, an endangered rare specie who is extremely sensitive to heat and noise and cannot be looked after properly at a place other than Zoo. Mr. Sharif and hid daughter should be tried in Terrorism Court for keeping the rare animal in an un-conducive environment and making fun of it in the political rallies.
Recommend 0
yasmine
May 08, 2013 05:16pm
its a joke those responsible should be charged with cruelty towards animals. These people expect the public to vote for them when they show such disregard for life be it human or animal insensitive and barbaric
Recommend 0
Shirjeel Humayun
May 08, 2013 05:16pm
PML-N has no heart....They are power hungry people......
Recommend 0
excalibur
May 08, 2013 05:21pm
PML N is also dead after they killed a rare species for their tamasha Disgusting
Recommend 0
Khan
May 08, 2013 05:22pm
She should be sent to prison for ten years.
Recommend 0
maddy
May 08, 2013 05:27pm
one might say, they don't seem to care about an animal.. and yet they make promises to takecare of the awaam? pehle aik janwar ka khayaal toh rakh lo theek se! they should be charged for killing endangered species
Recommend 0
Kashaf
May 08, 2013 05:30pm
How do they claim to be good for Pakistanis when they can not take good care of their pet? It was not an incidental death, the poor tiger was drawn to extreme heat and noise in rallies as a sign of pride for this party. Well, pride comes before a fall. May Allah show them the right way and save all Pakistanis from such merciless leaders.
Recommend 0
Imtiaz
May 08, 2013 05:31pm
What's a big deal for them when they can treat human beings in huge numbers in worse manner than this. In early 1990s when I did my Army Staff course, I happened to visit their foundries and saw workers without safety goggles, torn hand gloves and owners had least idea about the safety standards.
Recommend 0
asdf
May 08, 2013 05:31pm
Just a reality check!! It looks that you are not much aware of North America. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/20/us/police-kill-dozens-of-animals-freed-from-ohio-preserve.html?pagewanted=all
Recommend 0
Shahpur
May 08, 2013 05:32pm
The Tiger dead body should be medically examined, by Pakistani or International organization and result should be made public. I hope some international organizations get involved in this case.
Recommend 0
kamaljit singh
May 08, 2013 05:32pm
May be the tiger was being told that he will be served humans after the win of PML_N but he refused the offer and died, because he was not an animal but was being held captive by animals.
Recommend 0
hyderphd74
May 08, 2013 05:38pm
The same way they treat 'rare' humans !
Recommend 0
Imran
May 08, 2013 05:52pm
Agreed!!!!!
Recommend 0
Imran
May 08, 2013 05:53pm
God willing
Recommend 0
shahid
May 08, 2013 05:59pm
White tiger had changed the party and did not want to attend PML(N) rally and preferred to die. Tiger wanted a change in Pakistan.
Recommend 0
ahmed
May 08, 2013 06:04pm
I wonder if the real animal was inside the cage or outside?
Recommend 0
ahmed
May 08, 2013 06:04pm
Kamaljit, we are animals. Can't said it any other way!
Recommend 0
Masood
May 08, 2013 06:26pm
This is an example of non caring leaders........what chance has people of Pakistan being ruled by leaders who have greed on their agenda
Recommend 0
asif
May 08, 2013 06:33pm
I doubt we will see a clearer criminal offence this year under section 3 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1890. Someone concerned has three months to lodge an FIR against the owner for the pain, suffering and thirst caused to the animal once the PM has shown the cause of death.
Recommend 0
Ashamed
May 08, 2013 06:34pm
Barbarians! every single one of us. There is not a civil bone in our bodies and absolutely no humanity.
Recommend 0
Mushtaq Ahmed
May 08, 2013 06:47pm
How cruel it is to bring a helpless animal to suffer in the heat
Recommend 0
kesar
May 08, 2013 06:49pm
Absolutely disgusting treatment of a beautiful creature. Ms Maryam Nawaz should hang her head in shame.
Recommend 0
ANDUL KADER
May 10, 2013 03:48am
Khan Saheb visited the Sharifs when a younger Sharif died of natural causes. It was a pay-back by Shahbaz
Recommend 0
Julie C
May 08, 2013 06:54pm
Animal cruelty .. 100%. People who can't care for animals, how can you put human life in their hands.
Recommend 0
Dar
May 08, 2013 07:04pm
This is not only a death of Innocent creature but this will also be death of PML-N on 11th May.. Insha Allah...
Recommend 0
John
May 08, 2013 07:04pm
An autopsy must be carried out. The King of Animal kingdom must have been fed up of listening to white lies, false promises and corrupt persons all around him. He must have died of shame being the symbol of a party of shameless. Cause of death "Mental Torture"
Recommend 0
Tasneem
May 08, 2013 07:10pm
I hope the people of Pakistan by now realizes the ill mentality of our corrupt politician and vote for the change with their eyes and mind open. We should never let these politician to get to the parliment. I hope PTI takes a swaping lead and bring some stability in our homeland.
Recommend 0
Billoo Bhaya
May 08, 2013 07:16pm
The Tiger died of a broken heart. He had a premonition that Sharif's were going to lose the election again, this time beaten by people's sympathies for Imran Khan following his untimely injuries. Unless Sharif's can pull something better, its unlikely that they will win. Therefore the Tiger committed Hari Kiri as an honorable exit.
Recommend 0
Qamar
May 08, 2013 07:17pm
Maryam Nawaz used the tiger to attract people to listen to her political speeches. What is she gonna do now?
Recommend 0
Hasnain Haque
May 08, 2013 07:18pm
The tiger prefered to be dead rather than serve his corrupt masters and live a life of deceit and shame. Whilst the Pakistani public starves, the Sharifs parade endagered species in street, just shows how out of touch they from their people.
Recommend 0
Fauz
May 08, 2013 07:24pm
I strongly suggest that every one should stay at home on May 11 and not vote for any body. These political and greedy people do not deserve a single vote. It is time for their wipe out from the earth. The white tiger should be declared "SHAHEED TIGER".
Recommend 0
Salman
May 08, 2013 07:27pm
How can an innocent and honest person vote for PML-N, you have to be a thug and corrupt person to vote this party. PML-N is nothing but SHOW-OFF and CORRUPT party.
Recommend 0
Patriotic Pak
May 08, 2013 07:28pm
PML-N's white tiger was nothing but a show of power and arrogance. Sharif brothers and their family members should first learn to treat animals and their employees with dignity and respect. If they were so concerned about people their white tiger would have not died due to noise and heat. They were so blind in the race of power that they could not take care of an endangered species. Also, bringing a tiger in public could have had other consequences. But why would Sharif's care about people. My dear Pakistanis, wake up and try to focus on facts and not emotions. Imran Khan talks using facts. Learn to use your brain and vote for the one who talks about facts. If you again vote for the old faces then even Allah won't come to your rescue.
Recommend 0
Azam Baig
May 08, 2013 07:29pm
I sincerely hope that the cruelty shown to this magnificient beast in no way reflects the mindset of Mr Sharif and his family
Recommend 0
Azam
May 08, 2013 07:33pm
I hope WWF takes strong notice of this act. Its just unbelievable and very sad for people who love animals.
Recommend 0
Shafi Ansari
May 08, 2013 07:46pm
This shows what intelligence levels PML-N leadership has. Very Cruel.
Recommend 0
Azim
May 08, 2013 08:14pm
sad but seems kisi neh sher per bohat zoor seh thapa laga diya tha.....
Recommend 0
Mumtaz NY
May 08, 2013 08:15pm
Shame on PMLN - killing a rare animal.
Recommend 0
G.A.
May 08, 2013 08:17pm
This tiger was an endangered species. Which means it belongs to all mankind and was our responsibility to keep it safe on our soil. These incompetent people have killed in our name. My head hangs in shame. Wait till this news hits the global media.
Recommend 0
Zee
May 08, 2013 08:21pm
The white tiger could not take the white lies, and passed away. The sharif brothers have blamed it on Musharraf, and the judiciary immediately supported them by adding animal cruelty charges on Musharraf which they claim to be an unbailable offence.
Recommend 0
Shafiq
May 08, 2013 08:23pm
I love Maryam Nawaz's response on the news. She asked her assistant to pay enough money to the proud tiger owner to buy two more white tigers before the next rally.
Recommend 0
Mandar J (Mumbai)
May 08, 2013 08:40pm
Best Circus show in 69 years... way to go...
Recommend 0
zia khan
May 10, 2013 02:17am
It was only brute force that a Tiger confessed to be a Lion and later died of injuries and shame.
Recommend 0
Rajeev
May 08, 2013 08:55pm
Why don't these people put Nawaz Sharief also called Sher on display? People will pay to see ganja sher. Poor Tiger. RIP.
Recommend 0
SBB
May 08, 2013 09:24pm
Heartless for anyone to treat this rare, beautiful animal, one of God's creations this way. How can these uneducated people run a country if they can't value the White Tiger? And it's a lie that these people fear God.. they have no fear of anyone or anything. Shame on them.
Recommend 0
Shahpur
May 08, 2013 09:25pm
Why there is no autopsy of this Tiger. There is no law in Pakistan. Some Pakistani should request an International Organization to do the autopsy.
Recommend 0
Shahpur
May 08, 2013 09:39pm
He was probably drugged so much he died.
Recommend 0
Rabia Khaliq
May 09, 2013 06:41am
This depict cruel and sick mentality of Sharif family.
Recommend 0
Salman
May 09, 2013 07:24am
Maryam Nawaz is brought up in a glass house and not even aware of the ground realities and sufferings of the awaam of this poor nation what to talk of the animals. For her this endangered specie was just any other pet as i am sure she would not even know what an endangered specie means and the implications of its extinction for the nature. She and the party election organisers should have had the brains to know or find out about the poor animal behavior in such environment. It all speaks of the low caliber of the party and its leadership. I hope Faryal Gohar and WWF takes this matter into logical conclusion.
Recommend 0
Naseem Altaf
May 09, 2013 07:52am
So sad.It shows how dehumanized we have become.Our society has lost it's cherished values of caring for others--animals or humans.
Recommend 0
anum zafar
May 09, 2013 08:07am
I felt really very sad for the death of the poor animal. They shouldn't have brought the live animal in such heat and noise without taking care of the innocent creature, Totally wrong! Animals are LIVING BEINGS and should be taken care of. And i support Ms.Faryal Gohar for taking an action on this issue.
Recommend 0
ayesha200bc
May 09, 2013 08:46pm
Here we go --Its so extremely sad that this beautiful white tiger is no more, but if we see the matter from a different point of view, the fact is that even the Tiger could not stand the wrath of PML- N group, and here the people are all prepared to commit another flagrant blunder, by voting for him the third time---For heaven's sake have mercy on this dear nation---
Recommend 0
Salma~Ahmad Khan
May 09, 2013 08:17pm
YOU are so right~~~
Recommend 0
Tim Button
May 09, 2013 10:34pm
BBC is reporting that the tiger is still alive, with Owen Bennett-Jones saying he has seen it. Who were your unnamed sources, and why are you letting them spread politically loaded misinformation on the eve of an election?
Recommend 0
Pakistani
May 09, 2013 10:26am
If this incident does not open the eyes of the people, then they deserve to suffer much worse than their current hardships.
Recommend 0
Maliha
May 09, 2013 10:29am
Couldn't agree more.
Recommend 0
Salim Akbani
May 09, 2013 12:13pm
This tiger was made to suffer at the hands of the feudal just like the people of Pakistan.
Recommend 0
Masood hussain
May 09, 2013 01:36pm
ECP and Interim Govt. should have taken notice and stopped people bringing the rare breed animal to the public rallies.I support Faryal Gohar for the petition.
Recommend 0
Obi Wan
May 09, 2013 09:39pm
What struck me more, unfortunately, was how terribly the article had been written. Is the writing staff oblivious to the construction and generation of sentences in the English language or are the editors on the election march themselves?
Recommend 0
Rafiq Ahmad
May 10, 2013 05:53am
oh Mr. from where u brought imran and noora discussion. u should aware that here tha comments are passing against maryam and her tiger ok
Recommend 0
khan
May 10, 2013 06:15am
So praying for IK and visiting him in hospital is an excuse to the killing of poor tiger? Grow up and Open your eyes.
Recommend 0
M Rafique
May 10, 2013 06:22am
Every one has to die including using the tiger as their symbol
Recommend 0
ANEES
May 10, 2013 06:27am
So, do all these good gestures make the death of this poor animal acceptable?
Recommend 0
Salman
May 10, 2013 07:23am
The only will sharif brothers have is for themselves. I consider them more currupt than Zardari, at least he admits to the things he does and is shameless. But the sharif brothers are the worst and I have no doubt that if the people of punjab ellect them, they would again do everything in their power to increase their own wealth.
Recommend 0
Django
May 10, 2013 07:24am
The tiger is alive and well, Owen Bennett Jones of BBC interviewed the owner and photographed the tiger. Shame on you DAWN.
Recommend 0
Amber
May 10, 2013 07:43am
Using animals for realizing political goals is a cruel and cold blooded crime. Globally it is illegal to exploit animals in any way and as humans we should respect this, more so as Muslims. I absolutely fail to understand why an animal (especially an endangered, vulnerable and threatened specie) is used to draw crowds, it serves nothing as a matter of fact. This particular action shows the kind of followers PMLN has, won
Recommend 0
Akram
May 10, 2013 08:21am
this story shows just how backward the PML-N are, I mean would you see such a live animal at a democratic party convention in the US or conservative party conference in the UK? all for the titillation of a few supporters most of whom have just shown up for the free food.
Recommend 0
Steppenwolf
May 10, 2013 01:14pm
This story is the perfect symbol of the Pakistani People. Brave like a tiger. Chained like an animal. Treated like a circus show. Abused by the rich and in the end dies from exhaustion. Viva La revolutional!
Recommend 0

Most Popular

01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09

Latest Stories

Opinion

Editorial

In chains
Updated 25 May, 2026

In chains

THE question should never be about who is at the receiving end at any given point in time: an assault on an...
Climate shocks
25 May, 2026

Climate shocks

THE latest State Bank report documenting recurring climatic disasters in Pakistan during the period between 2000 and...
Justice deferred
25 May, 2026

Justice deferred

PAKISTAN’S courts are quick to remind the public that justice takes time. Increasingly, however, it is the conduct...
Some progress
Updated 24 May, 2026

Some progress

Pakistan deserves credit for helping preserve diplomatic space, but also must avoid appearing aligned with coercive pressure from any side.
Chinese market
24 May, 2026

Chinese market

PRIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s trip to China presents an opportunity to rebalance Pakistan’s economic...
Harvesting humans
24 May, 2026

Harvesting humans

ORGAN brokers have for too long preyed on desperation to rake it in. The odious trade — among the most harmful...
Dawn News English Podcasts
Subscribe