In a recent development, actress Ushna Shah has publicly urged Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to take decisive action against the rising incidents of animal cruelty in the province. Shah's open letter, shared on her Instagram, begins with praise for the Chief Minister's efforts in improving public safety and cleanliness, stating, "You are nearly flawless," but quickly shifts to highlight the ongoing neglect of animal welfare. She referenced a disturbing viral video of a dog being dragged by a vehicle, which has sparked outrage and led to public blame directed at the government: "People have claimed that Maryam Nawaz is responsible for the suffering of animals. Whether justified or not, this perception is taking shape," she noted (Dawn, February 20, 2026). Shah emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of existing animal cruelty laws, the banning of wild animals as pets, and the implementation of humane management practices for working animals.