“Try not to become a man of success but rather to become a man of value.” – Albert Einstein

Crimes against animals hit terrible new lows

Next time you are horrified about somebody’s appalling behaviour, think twice before saying: "He/she behaved worse than an animal." Because "worse than an animal" has become the behavioural norm for humans – at least, some humans. Lately, the number of cases of animals being raped is horrifying. Last week, while scrolling through my Facebook, I came across a terrifying incident of a kitten that was gang raped by a group of teen boys multiple times until her tiny organs got crushed. She died due to the trauma and pain. For those who have been living under a rock and think this was an isolated incident, this is just one of such episodes that have left us sick, disgusted – and ashamed to be called humans. While these cases of utmost brutality are on the rise, there is an acute dearth of laws to protect animals from cases of sexual abuse – giving the depraved and psychopaths the conviction to get away from the law. But who cares and bothers to check? The animals, after all, cannot understand the court’s orders and speak up for their rights. Even if the case is registered, the question arises of what section of the Pakistan Penal Code should it be registered under? While the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1890 deals with the cognizance of a host of possibilities of treating animals cruelly, it fails to provide strict punishments regarding the heinous crimes against animals. The maximum punishment is a fine of Rs 50 rupees or imprisonment of up to three months or both. The government, so far, has maintained silence on it and no amendments have been made to this outdated act. If the human urge to rape cannot be controlled, it is time we consider tying humans up, rather than animals.

Muzammil Haider,
Karachi.

The importance of social work

In a world filled with injustices and incredibly complex, pressing challenges, we need people who is committed to making a difference in the lives of people within their communities more than ever before, and that’s precisely where social workers come in. Through their commitment to bringing about positive social change, helping individuals of all ages thrive in their local environment and being an advocate for those who have lost their voice, social workers play a prominent role in improving the lives of those who need it most. Social workers are more needed than ever in our society, but often play a background role. Their impact on society as a whole is often forgotten, and the discipline doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. Social workers are dedicated to making actual change at the ground level, and help both communities and individuals in need. The role of social work is to promote well being and help people fulfill their basic needs, especially those who are oppressed, marginalised, or living in poverty. A defining and historic feature of the profession is to help the development of the individual and the society as a whole. There is a dire need to promote this profession in our society and for that a lot has to be done to promote social work positions as well. Social work is one of the professions that reports the highest satisfaction rate, and is one of the most fulfilling career paths anyone can embark upon. More has to be done to value the role social workers play in our society. It starts with more education, and continues by raising awareness about issues affecting society’s most vulnerable members. It’s also about shifting towards a culture of compassion, and understanding how supporting, guiding, and investing in populations in need benefits us all.

Alishba Yonus,
Lahore.