ISLAMABAD : Dr Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, MNA & Patron-in-chief Pakistan Hindu Council, has stressed that the rights of every animal and bird across the country must be protected. During a social media live session, he said that: “There is a dire need for legislation to bring all zoos across the country in line with the international standards,” He was expressing his views to acknowledge the success of Free Kaavan movement. “The tireless struggle of all activists for freeing Kaavan is indeed remarkable and a big achievement,” he stated, adding that the IHC Chief Justice Honorable Athar Minallah deserves a tribute for issuing orders to release the poor animals.

Dr Ramesh Kumar, while answering a question during the live session, also quoted the golden words of Mahatma Gandhi as: “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” The parliamentarian, who also heads Pakistan Hindu Council, emphasized that the teachings of all religions, including Hindusism, have specially instructed to treat innocent animals with compassion and kindness. “Islam counts animals among the creatures of God who are living according to the laws of nature,” he said, The last Prophet (pbuh) also urged that people treat animals with love, kindness and great care. Dr Ramesh further expressed.

“We must understand that today, in the 21st century, the concepts regarding zoos have entirely changed,” Dr Ramesh said. He was of the view that world’s best universities are now producing graduates with degrees in animal welfare and zoo management. He further informed that many countries, such as South Africa, are introducing eco-friendly tourism where people can enjoy wildlife in a friendly way.

“It is a great pity that we have completely failed to provide a kind environment to an elephant living in Pakistan,” Dr Ramesh regretted. In concluding remarks, he emphasized that being a good human being, it is our moral responsibility to feel the pain of innocent animals.