Video sparks outrage over dead stray dogs in Lahore

A video circulating on social media has sparked fresh controversy after allegedly showing the bodies of several stray dogs being transported

LAHORE: A video circulating on social media has sparked fresh controversy after allegedly showing the bodies of several stray dogs being transported near Harbanspura Ring Road. The footage has reignited concerns over the treatment of stray animals and prompted renewed calls for an investigation into whether authorities are complying with Punjab’s animal welfare policy.

According to the video, the dead dogs were loaded onto vehicles reportedly linked to the Punjab government’s Suthra Punjab sanitation programme. The footage quickly spread online, with many social media users and animal rights activists questioning why stray dogs were allegedly being killed despite official commitments to adopt humane population control measures.

In the video, a citizen is seen questioning an official about whether the killing of stray dogs is prohibited under court orders. The official allegedly replies that there is no ban and claims the action is being carried out by the government. The exchange has further intensified public concern and debate over the issue.

The incident comes despite the Punjab government’s commitment to implement the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release (TNVR) Policy 2021, which was introduced as a humane method of controlling the stray dog population. Under the policy, stray dogs are to be captured, sterilised, vaccinated against rabies and then released back into the same areas instead of being culled.

During earlier court proceedings, provincial authorities assured the judiciary that stray dogs would no longer be killed and that all population control measures would be carried out under the TNVR programme. The court also warned that any violation of its directives could lead to legal action against those responsible.

Animal welfare organisations have repeatedly claimed that incidents involving the alleged killing of stray dogs continue to surface in Lahore and several other parts of Punjab. Activists argue that such practices not only violate official policy but also undermine efforts to introduce humane and sustainable animal management.

Rights groups have also reported similar allegations from private housing societies, where stray dogs are allegedly removed or killed despite the existence of the provincial policy. They have urged authorities to ensure strict implementation of the TNVR programme and hold those responsible accountable if any violations are confirmed.