(Publish from Houston Texas USA)

(By Muhammad Mansoor Mumtaz Lahore)

Calls for immediate policy reforms as dog bite cases surge and stray dog population crosses one million in Punjab

The President of the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), Prof. Shahid Malik, has expressed deep concern and sorrow over the tragic death of an innocent child in Lahore due to a dog bite. He has urged the Government of Punjab to immediately revoke the Animal Birth Control Policy 2021 and formulate a new, effective policy to control the rapidly increasing population of stray dogs. He stated that until a new policy is introduced, the pre-2021 mechanisms should be reinstated without delay to control the stray dog population and safeguard human lives. Prof. Shahid Malik highlighted that over 400,000 people have been bitten by dogs in the past two years, reflecting a highly alarming public health situation. Despite this, no effective action has been taken against stray dogs, resulting in an uncontrolled increase in their population. Currently, more than one million stray dogs are estimated to be present in Punjab, posing a serious threat to human life. He further emphasized that Clause 3 of the Local Government Act 2025 empowers Assistant Commissioners and district authorities to take decisive action against dangerous animals, including stray dogs. He clarified that there is no stay order from any court restraining action under this law. He expressed concern that some officials are misleading the public by claiming that a High Court stay order prevents action against stray dogs. He termed such claims as excuses to avoid responsibility and inaction. Prof. Shahid Malik called upon the Government of Punjab and all concerned authorities to take immediate emergency measures, implement an effective policy for controlling stray dog populations, and prioritize the protection of human lives.

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