In a powerful Ramazan message, Pakistani actress Ushna Shah has penned an open letter to Punjab government, urging immediate and concrete action against animal cruelty in the province.
Taking to Instagram, Ushna shared a detailed note addressed directly to the government, beginning by acknowledging recent efforts toward women’s safety and public order. However, she quickly shifted focus to what she described as a troubling silence on animal welfare.
Citing disturbing incidents including viral footage of a dog being dragged behind a vehicle, animals reportedly crushed during market demolitions, the abuse of donkey-cart animals, and the existence of organized dog fighting, the actress called for urgent systemic reform.
Ushna proposed replacing culling and poisoning practices with structured spay and neuter programs, enforcing stricter penalties for animal cruelty, regulating donkey carts to prevent physical abuse, banning the private ownership of wild animals, and transitioning zoos into proper sanctuaries.
Timing her message with the start of Ramadan, the actress invoked religious responsibility. In her caption, she wrote:
“An open letter to CM. And to everyone I wish you Ramazan Mubarak. May this Ramadan not be a performative one. May we all contribute to making this planet, as Allah intended, a haven for all of His creatures.”
Referring to animals as Allah ki makhlooq (God’s creation), Ushna reminded her followers that compassion toward animals is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and the example of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Her appeal framed animal welfare not just as policy reform, but as moral accountability.
The post quickly gained traction, drawing thousands of likes and hundreds of comments, with many users praising her for using her platform responsibly.
This isn’t the first time Ushna Shah has taken a public stand for animal rights. Over the years, she has repeatedly spoken out against animal abuse, stray dog killings, and exploitative treatment of working animals.
Her outspoken stance has at times landed her in controversy, particularly when her views clashed with segments of the public who defended culling policies or traditional practices. Yet, the actress has remained consistent choosing advocacy over approval.
Beyond activism, Ushna Shah is one of Pakistan’s most recognizable television stars, known for her performances in hit dramas such as Bashar Momin, Alif Allah Aur Insaan, and Habs.
Born into a family of artists, she carved her own identity in the industry through bold role choices and an unfiltered public persona.
Whether speaking about social justice, women’s issues, or animal welfare, Ushna has built a reputation for saying what many hesitate to.
