Staff Reporter
LAHORE: Justice Ayesha A. Malik has wehemently advocated for Animal Rights at International Conference.
Supreme Court Judge Justice Ayesha A. Malik emphasized the importance of animal rights, stating that while human rights receive significant attention, the rights of animals are often neglected. She called for strict penalties against those who mistreat animals.
Environmental and Animal Rights Conference to begin on January 18 in Lahore
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the International Animal and Environmental Rights Conference, Justice Malik stressed that all living beings have the right to live without fear. She highlighted the urgent need for immediate measures to protect animal rights in Pakistan.
Justice Malik noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, while efforts were made to safeguard humans, animals were largely overlooked. She added that just as humans need clean water and a healthy environment, animals require the same conditions to thrive.
She further emphasized the necessity of a robust legal framework to ensure the protection of animal rights across all regions. She praised organizations working for animal welfare, describing their efforts as a positive step forward.
Expressing concern over the conditions of animals at Lahore’s Tollinton Market, Justice Malik pointed out the lack of clarity regarding laws related to stray dogs. She criticized the practice of killing dogs under the pretext of controlling rabies, asserting that rabies must be addressed through prevention rather than culling.
Justice Jawad Hassan of the Lahore High Court also addressed the conference, stating that courts have begun to take a stand on animal welfare. He referenced the Holy Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) last sermon, which emphasized fundamental rights, and noted that Pakistan is a signatory to international animal rights conventions.
Justice Hassan highlighted landmark rulings by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Athar Minallah on climate change and animal welfare. He praised the Punjab government’s ban on hunting and declared that his courtroom doors are open for voiceless animals.
Other speakers at the conference included Lahore High Court Bar Association President Asad Manzoor Butt, Abu Zar Salman Niazi, Balqees Bano Wardag, Sunita Gulzar, Ahmed Malik, and the event’s organizer, Altamush Saeed.
