ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The Islamabad High Court has imposed a permanent ban on campaigns involving poisoning, shooting, or unlawful culling of stray dogs in the federal capital, directing authorities to adopt a scientific and humane approach for population control.
In a detailed 24-page judgment issued by Justice Khurram Hashim Somro, the court ordered relevant institutions, including the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and the Capital Development Authority (CDA), to strictly implement a “trap, neuter, vaccinate and release” policy.
The court further directed that no lactating, collar-tagged, healthy, or vaccinated dogs should be captured unnecessarily. It ruled that only a qualified veterinary doctor can certify whether a dog is rabid or incurably ill before any euthanasia is considered.
The judgment also ordered the creation of a database of dog bite incidents and vaccination records, along with a registry to document animal cruelty cases.
Authorities were instructed to improve transparency in records and standard operating procedures at the stray dog population control centre in Tarlai. The court noted the absence of a uniform national law for animal control in Pakistan, highlighting fragmented provincial systems.
The court also observed that the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1890 is outdated and requires urgent reform with stricter penalties.
During proceedings, concerns were raised over images of dead dogs allegedly found in CDA vehicles, while officials failed to justify the killing of stray animals on legal grounds.
The court emphasized that stray and wild animals are sentient beings and must not be subjected to cruelty, adding that environmental balance and biological protection fall within the constitutional right to life. It further referenced Islamic teachings, stating that cruelty to animals is prohibited and compassion is encouraged.
The petition was filed by Islamabad residents including Nilofar and others, while activist Reham Khan also attended proceedings during the hearings.