THIS is with reference to the letter ‘Animal cruelty’ (July 10). Following the incident where a man severed a camel’s leg as retribution for scavenging on his land, another incident occurred in Hyderabad. In a fit of rage, an individual cut off the leg of a donkey. The incident, which took place in Seri village, involved a dispute between two donkey cart drivers. The perpetrator was arrested and subsequently jailed.

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1890, in Pakistan does acknowledge animal pain and suffering, and has outlined specific protections for the animals, but it is an outdated tool, and lacks broader animal welfare measures.

The government should revise the Act, implement specific welfare requirements for farm animals, and ensure regular inspections. A national ministry for animal welfare and an advisory animal welfare committee are also needed in this regard.

Malaika Khawer
Rawalakot

Published in Dawn, July 15th, 2024