Animal cruelty: Karachi authorities slammed for hosting 'donkey cart race'

Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi organised a donkey cart race in the metropolis on Sunday in order to "revive traditional sports and ancient culture".

Additional Commissioner Syed Ghulam Mehdi inaugurated the race, in which Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab was invited as chief guest.

The race kicked off from ICI bridge and concluded at the Commissioner’s Office, Club Road, in the port city.

Following the race, Mayor Murtaza Wahab distributed the prizes among the position-holders, who secured first, second and third spots in the race.

Talking to the participants, Wahab said that the donkey cart race is a part of Karachi’s ancient heritage.

However, the event sparked outrage among animal lovers and citizens, who condemned the authorities for subjecting "animals to physical stress and harm'.

"This is nothing but animal cruelty. Using donkeys for entertainment is unacceptable," said a citizen while speaking to Dialogue Pakistan's reporter. 

"Instead of promoting ancient culture, the authorities should focus on animal welfare and protection," added another. 

On the same day, a donkey, whose legs were broken by a feudal lord in Hyderabad, passed away in Karachi while undergoing treatment.