PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has taken a significant step towards protecting animals by strengthening provincial legislation to combat animal abuse, particularly focusing on animals used for transportation.
According to the newly passed Animal Welfare Bill, 2024, overburdening or causing pain to an animal can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment for up to three months or a fine of Rs 50,000.
The bill ensures that animals are treated with compassion and respect. Slaughterhouses are required to conduct themselves humanely when dealing with animals destined for food.
Additionally, animal fighting for entertainment purposes is strictly prohibited and violators face three months’ imprisonment.
To safeguard animal health, only certified or licensed veterinarians are permitted to perform animal surgery. Moreover, owners who conceal information related to animal rights violations face a fine of Rs 10,000 or three months’ imprisonment.
Cases related to animal abuse will be heard by the Judicial Magistrate First Class, ensuring swift justice for offenders. This development is a welcome step towards creating a more compassionate society, where animals are protected from cruelty and abuse.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s efforts to strengthen animal welfare laws demonstrate its commitment to preventing animal suffering.
