The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has introduced a province-wide campaign to regulate the ownership of big cats, including lions, cheetahs, jaguars, and leopards. The initiative, aimed at improving public safety and animal welfare, was officially launched.
In the first phase, the Punjab Wildlife Department has issued a directive requiring all big cat owners to formally declare their animals within 30 days. A public notice mandates owners to submit details such as breed, age, location, and the number of animals through the newly launched “Wildlife PASS App,” designed for efficient documentation.
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Failure to declare ownership within the stipulated time will result in strict penalties. Officials warned that keeping a big cat without a license is now a non-bailable offence, with violators facing up to seven years in prison and hefty fines. Additionally, any unregistered big cats found will be confiscated.
The government’s move comes in response to concerns over public safety and the illegal trade of exotic animals. Recent amendments to the Punjab Wildlife Act of 1974 have added big cats to Schedule II, requiring stricter regulations for their ownership.
To obtain a license, owners must meet stringent international standards, and detailed criteria are available on the Punjab Wildlife Department’s website. Dedicated teams have been deployed to assist with the declaration process, ensuring a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework.
