As a dedicated animal lover and parent to 8 cats and foster parent of several dogs in my local area, I have witnessed firsthand the horrifying extent that animal cruelty can reach. Day after day, innocent lives are marred by abuse, starved, abandoned, and worse. My mother and I, fervent animal advocates, are heartbroken by the horrific abuse and neglect that these poor animals endure on a daily basis. Yet, our calls for change, justice, and protection have been consistently ignored.

With the former BAL regime no longer in power, it's time to seize this moment of transition to advocate for a compassionate future for all creatures great and small in Bangladesh. We call on the interim government to implement and enforce stricter animal welfare laws. Additionally, it is paramount that there are regulations governing pet stores and breeding establishments through an adequate licensing system to prevent maltreatment and unregulated breeding. Furthermore, we need stronger legal repercussions to deter potential abusers.

We urge the interim government to implement and enforce comprehensive animal protection laws. This includes:

• Stricter penalties for animal abuse—ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison for abuse, and 15 to 30 years for killing an animal.
• Mandatory licensing and inspections for pet stores and breeding facilities to ensure ethical treatment and care.
• A ban on unregulated breeding, with licenses issued only to those who pass a rigorous examination process.

 

It is estimated that nationally, hundreds of animals suffer from abuse each year - and Bangladesh is certainly not exempt from this grim reality (source: The Humane Society). A more robust legal regime in animal welfare will not only protect our beloved pets and the animals we work tirelessly to foster; it will also bring Bangladesh in line with international standards and demonstrate a commitment to kindness, compassion, and justice.

On behalf of the numerous animals who fall victim to inexcusable cruelty and the countless people who love and care for them, let us raise our voices. Join us in urging the Bangladeshi interim government to take immediate and decisive action. Please, for the countless voiceless victims who suffer without justice, sign and share this petition.

Their pain has no voice—be theirs.