Govt Constitutes Committee for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

The government has constituted a high-level committee to address the issue of animal cruelty, as per the directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The committee, formed under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, is tasked with ensuring the protection of animals and strengthening the legal and institutional framework for their welfare.

The notification, names Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, the Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, as the convener of the committee.

The other members include Mr. Talal Choudhry, Minister of State for Interior and Narcotics Control, Syed Rizwan Mehboob, an environment and wildlife activist, Ms. Humaira Zia Malik, Secretary of the National Commission on the Status of Women, Ms. Anila Umar, an animal rights activist, Lt. (R) Sohail Ashraf, Chief Commissioner/Chairman of the CDA, and the Inspector General of Forests, Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, as the Secretary.

The committee’s primary objective is to address the increasing incidents of cruelty against animals in Pakistan. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination will provide secretariat support to the committee, ensuring that the committee’s work aligns with national and international standards for animal protection.

The committee has been tasked with reviewing the existing frameworks and suggesting improvements, including the creation of shelters and veterinary support systems for rescued animals. The deadline for the committee’s tasks is set for 27th April 2026.

The Terms of Reference (ToRs) outline the committee’s responsibilities, which include reviewing cases of cruelty against animals and recommending measures to improve the legal and institutional protection mechanisms for animals.

Additionally, the committee is mandated to assess and map the illegal wildlife trade, propose stronger enforcement measures against poaching and smuggling, and establish monitoring systems to ensure the conservation of wildlife, in line with both national and international conservation standards.

Another significant area of focus for the committee is the launch of national awareness campaigns on animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. This will involve coordination among various government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations.

The committee will also work to integrate animal welfare into educational programs and urban development policies, ensuring that the issue of animal protection receives broader societal attention and action.

Lastly, the committee will address the issue of stray animals. Recommendations for the humane control of stray animal populations, including sterilization, vaccination programs, and community engagement, will be developed.