ISLAMABAD: While activists have condemned alleged ill-treatment of animals at the Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) stray dog population control centre, the civic agency has denied the allegations.

The accusations were made during a press conference by Altamish Saeed, actress Mishi Khan, Anila, Parisha Khan and others.

They alleged that CDA officials transport stray dogs to a facility that has come to be infamously known as the “pit of death.” They claimed that the centre lacked medical facilities, proper care and respect for animal life. They said it was becoming a cause of neglect - not only threatening animal welfare but also posing a public health risk due to inadequate care.

They said stray dogs needed assistance rather than being subjected to harsh conditions. They appealed to civil society to play its part in ensuring the safety and right to life of animals.

The activists said the aim of the press conference was to urge the government and CDA to treat stray dogs with dignity and protection. They also pointed out that Islamabad High Court (IHC) had already issued a ruling on the matter, but the lack of implementation remains a serious concern. The case is scheduled to be presented again before the IHC on June 25. They said that stray dogs should receive the same treatment as pet dogs because their lives mattered too.

However, a senior CDA official denied the allegations, claiming that some non-governmental organisations were making such accusations in order to obtain funding from national and international sources.

“I totally reject and deny all allegations, which are mere speculation and propaganda against the CDA regarding stray dogs. The allegations are not based on facts. We have a proper centre and I urge people to visit it. We have arrangements for animal vaccinations, bathing and other facilities,” he said.

“The in-charge of the centre is a veterinary doctor who is also an animal lover. We’ve also made arrangements for people to adopt dogs from the centre. Anyone can visit and see the kind of care being provided,” he added.

The official also shared a video showing that the dogs receive proper care and that there are arrangements in place to keep them healthy and happy.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2025